Former rivals join forces

CEBU, Philippines - With less than three months before the filing of certificates of candidacy for the upcoming May 2013 elections, the consolidation of political forces are shaping up in Talisay City as long-time political rivals have now turned allies. 

First district Rep. Eduardo Gullas and former Talisay mayor Delia Tiu, who were previously friends before going their separate ways in 1992, have become allies again and both have announced their plan for Talisay in 2013. 

Gullas became a political foe when Tiu’s father, former congressman Antonio Bacaltos Sr., who was a member of the 8th Congress (1987-1992), lost in the 1992 election against the incumbent congressman. 

Gullas, who will run for mayor of Talisay City next year, also fought against Tiu in 2001. 

A source who is close to Gullas and Tiu confirmed that the two political leaders met in the house of the former mayor and agreed to join forces.

But this time, it is Tiu’s brother, Antonio “Jojo” Bacaltos Jr., who will run for city councilor under the Alayon banner, which Gullas is the head. 

Gullas is on his third term as congressman, which prevents him from seeking reelection due to term limits.

This will be the second time the veteran politician will run for mayor in the southern city.

He was the mayor of Talisay from 2001 to 2004.

“Papa and I went to mayor Tiu’s house together. Their family decided to have Antonio “Jojo” Bacaltos Jr. to run for councilor under papa Eddie’s slate,” Rep. Gullas’ grandson, Gerard Anthony “SamSam” Gullas told The Freeman yesterday. 

Samsam will run for congress. Rep. Gullas held the first district from 1992 to 2001 and from 2004 up to the present.

His brother, former congressman Jose Gullas, replaced him in 2001 to 2004. 

“There were no offers or counter offers. Just the chance to serve,” Samsam said.  

Incumbent Vice Mayor Alan Bucao will run as runningmate of Gullas.

Mayor Socrates Fernandez who is on his third and last term will run for a seat in the city council.