Opposition in Talisay vows to field strong bets in 2013 polls

CEBU, Philippines - The opposition camp in Talisay City said it will field strong contenders for the posts of mayor and vice mayor in next year’s midterm elections.

Opposition Councilor Romeo C. Villarante said his camp will invite, among others, former provincial board member Raul Bacaltos and former vice mayor Aberdovey Belleza to join its ranks.

The administration group, headed by Rep. Eduardo Gullas, who is on his third and last term, will run for mayor. 

Vice Mayor Alan Bucao will vie for the vice mayoralty post, while incumbent councilors Eduardo “Digul” Gullas III, Richard “Choy” Aznar, Celiapo “Semy” Cabuenas, Dennis Basillote, and Edward Alesna will seek reelection.

Completing the list are outgoing Mayor Socrates Fernandez, barangay Pooc captain Dory Emit, barangay Tabunok councilor Nino Rabaya, Jojo Bacaltos, and Rey Abarquez. 

Villarante said the opposition camp will decide who between Bacaltos and Belleza will run for mayor and vice mayor. 

Belleza, in a separate interview with the reporters, said nothing is final until he files his certificate of candidacy.

“I’m running either of the two positions,” Belleza said, adding that anytime there will be a group that would adopt him for the elections. 

The opposition has yet to complete its list for the slate for councilors.

So far, incumbent councilors Romeo Villarante, Danilo Caballero, and Valeriano Ylanan will seek reelection. Joining the list are barangay Lawaan 3 councilor Johnny V. delos Reyes and boxing referee Teddy Alivio. (FREEMAN)