Gathering not for LP

CEBU, Philippines - The gathering in Cebu led by retired Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim last Friday night was not for the Liberal Party. 

This was clarified by Board Member Jose Ribomapil Holganza, Jr., regional chairman of the Genuine Livelihood Initiative for the Masses (GenLIM).

The event at the Mariner’s Court, Pier 1, Cebu City was called, “a gathering of leaders for good governance, economic development and political stability.”

Holganza, president of the Federation of the Association of Barangay Councils (FABC) in the Province of Cebu, is allied with Governor Gwendolyn Garcia of One Cebu Party.

Lim lost in the senatorial bid in 2010 elections under LP and reportedly will run again in next year’s elections.

Noel Medina, chairman of GenLIM, said the endorsement of President Benigno Aquino III for Lim is not official. He said Lim’s program will continue even after the elections.

“Our commitment to good governance and extending livelihood programs and projects down to grassroots level are basic thrust of the organization,” Medina said.

Medina explained that the first regional launch of GenLIM was held in Region 7 because Lim’s mother is from Bohol.

Holganza said some political leaders in Cebu, including non-LP members, have expressed support for Lim should the former rebel marine brass decides to take another try for the Senate race.

Some leaders of Barug Alang sa Kauswagan ug Demokrasya (Bakud) Party in the Fifth District of Cebu Province who are allied with One Cebu Party were present at the launch.

Also in the gathering were Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale and son, Danao City councilor Miguel Antonio Magpale, as well as the latter’s colleagues.

Both LP and One Cebu are courting Magpale to be the runningmate of their respective gubernatorial bets for next year.

Holganza earlier mentioned that Bakud chairman, Danao City Vice Mayor Ramon “Nito” Durano III, also reportedly expressed support for Lim. Holganza also mentioned that First District Rep. Eduardo Gullas, head of Alayon Party, has also reportedly expressed support for Lim.  

Mayors Adelino Sitoy of Cordova and Nicomedes delos Santos of Alcoy who are members of One Cebu Party were also present in last Friday’s gathering.

Delos Santos said he went to the gathering to listen to Lim’s programs.     

GenLIM is a non-government organization aimed at creating a poverty-free country that will respond to the call of the marginalized sector by providing services to people in need. —Gregg M. Rubio/JMOensed or not.

The boy is still confined at the said hospital. – (FREEMAN)