Zambo: Binghay not running against Gwen

CEBU, Philippines - It is impossible that Provincial Board (PB) Member Alex Binghay will run against his ally Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia for congressman in the third district, said his son-in-law, PB Member Cesar Ian Geronimo Zambo.

Zambo joined Garcia and incumbent Rep. Pablo John Garcia in the inauguration of projects and distribution of financial assistance in barangay Mangoto, Pinamungajan last Friday.

He also joined the Garcias in a fiesta dinner reception at the residence of Pablo John’s chief of staff, Glen Baricuatro, the One Cebu’s bet for mayor in Pinamungajan. 

Zambo said that Binghay was not able to join them because he was in another fiesta invitation in the district.

Binghay has not been answering questions from the media regarding his plan of running for Congress after Gov. Garcia announced that she is seeking the position instead of the Senate.

“Imposible,” was the only answer of Zambo when asked by reporters if Binghay would pursue his plan.

Pablo John said that prior to Gwen’s announcement, Binghay was among those who requested the governor to reconsider her plan for a seat in the Senate.

“He is a very principled and sincere nga tawo,” Pablo John said.

Before she made her announcement, Gov. Garcia met third district leaders like Binghay, Zambo, Toledo City Mayor Aurelio Espinosa and daughter, Vice Mayor Arlene Zambo, Asturias Mayor Allan Adlawan, Aloguinsan Mayor Augustus Caesar Moreno and Baricuatro.

Pablo John said that Binghay has expressed interest for the congressional seat but he has to wait for the decision of the party, One Cebu.

The Liberal Party was reportedly eyeing Binghay to be its bet against Gov. Garcia saying that the board member has already been preparing for himself should One Cebu will not support him.

“Wa sila makaila kung unsa ang pagkatawo ni Board Member Binghay,” Pablo John said.

For the first time, Gov. Garcia personally explained to their leaders in the Pinamungajan last Friday the reason why she discontinued her plan to the Senate.

Garcia cited the need to preserve the unprecedented growth and unity Cebu has achieved. She assured the people of the third district of the same energy and enthusiasm of serving them when she is elected congresswoman.

Garcia said she will concentrate only Toledo City and the towns of Aloguinsan, Pinamungajan, Balamban, Asturias and Tuburan and no longer the entire Province of Cebu. (FREEMAN)