Sonny drops congress, runs for Toledo mayor

CEBU, Philippines - Former senator John Henry "Sonny" Osmeña yesterday filed his Certificate of Candidacy as independent candidate for mayor in Toledo City.

In Naga City, two brothers of Mayor Valdemar Chiong are running for councilor. Chiong who filed his COC yesterday immediately dismissed criticisms that his family is establishing a political dynasty.

Sonny's runningmate is former third district Rep. Antonio Yapha Jr. who is running under Liberal Party. Yapha said Osmeña did not get his certificate of nomination and acceptance from LP for reason he did not know.

In previous months Sonny announced that he was gunning for congress, at the time he was supposed to be up against incumbent third district Rep. Pablo John Garcia or Balamban Mayor Alex Binghay.

But his pronouncements changed when Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia dropped her senatorial bid. Gwen announced that she will run for the third district congressional seat.

Gwen's opponent now is Pinamungajan Mayor Geraldine Yapha of LP.

In Naga, Association of Barangay Councils president Virgilio Chiong and his brother Otello Chiong are running for councilor under their brother's ticket.

Mayor Chiong said it is not political dynasty for the members of his clan because they are sincere in their intention to serve the people of Naga.

Meanwhile, Rep. Benhur Salimbangon led the two other candidates from his district in the filing of their COCs yesterday. Salimbangon is running under the National Unity Party.

Reelectionist Provincial Board Members Sun Shimura and Joven Mondigo Jr. also filed their respective COC yesterday. They are also running under NUP.

In Consolacion, former mayor Avelino Gungob, Sr. also filed his COC yesterday under One Cebu Party. He was accompanied by former sixth district Rep. Nerissa Soon-Ruiz and more than 100 supporters. Soon-Ruiz is reportedly eyeing to return in congress.

Gungob's ticket includes Eusebio Cordova, Councilor Iluminado Alin, former mayor Leo Go, councilor Analee Gungob, Leonardo Lagroma, former councilor Arnolfo Abinales, former vice mayor Ember Alinsug and Jugan  councilman Agustin Lloveras. — (FREEMAN)