Razon confirms bid for Manila mayor

MANILA, Philippines – It will be a battle of former police chiefs for Manila’s mayoral post in the May 2010 elections.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Avelino Razon Jr., who became chief of the Manila Police District twice in 1997 and 2000, announced his bid for the mayoral post of Manila when he attended the blessing and inauguration of the MPD branch of the Philippine National Police Services Stores System yesterday morning.

“I will definitely run for mayor of Manila in the May 2010 elections. Manila residents are calling for alternative and change (in leadership) and I will offer my humble self to them,” Razon told The STAR.

Razon, fondly called “Kuya Sonny” by Manilans, said he came to know of the concerns of city residents in several consultation meetings he had attended, especially in depressed areas.

“Health care, job opportunities and respect and protection of their basic human rights are the prime concerns of Manila residents, and they are looking for a leader who can deliver them justly and equitably,” Razon said, adding that he would seek the highest post in the city under a platform of change.

Razon, who became PNP chief in 2008, is the author of the PNP Transformation Program, which seeks to change the tarnished image of policemen.

He was popularly known among the masses as “Mamang Pulis” during his police career.

He said he has no political party at the moment, but might join the Asenso Manileño of Vice Mayor Isko Moreno whom he may tap as running mate.

Political watchers said it would be a battle of two former Manila police chiefs if Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim decides to seek re-election. Lim also once headed the MPD.

Former three-time Manila mayor Lito Atienza, now environment and natural resources secretary, is also reportedly thinking of a comeback as the city’s chief executive.