Chiong: I won’t run for Congress

CEBU, Philippines - City of  Naga Mayor Val Chiong has dispelled rumors he will run for Congress.

“No, that’s not going to happen.  If  I had my way basin igo na lang ko mosuporta sa atong mga kauban,” said Chiong when asked if he will seek a higher position after his term expires in 2016.

Chiong said he just can’t imagine himself staying in Manila even for a few days in a week to attend sessions in Congress.

It has been reported that Chiong has been egged on by fellow mayors and political leaders to run for Congress in 2016.

The mayor said apart from his dislike for Manila’s busy life as compared to the laid-back setting in his own city, Chiong said he has also no intention to run against incumbent first district Rep. Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas, a party ally.

Chiong, 53, said he plans to retire from government service.

He said his group has already agreed to field his daughter, lawyer Kristine Chiong, who serves as his executive secretary, to be the standard bearer in 2016.

He said he and Vice Mayor Delfin Señor, who is also on his last term, have agreed to run, if at all, for lower positions if their presence in the line-up could make the team stronger.

“Pero kung di na kinahanglan, mas maayo. As long as naay kamao ug masaligan nga mudala sa Syudad,” he said.

Chiong said he is grooming her daughter to be the next candidate for mayor in the city.  (FREEMAN)