JVR open for rematch with Eddiegul in 2016

CEBU, Philippines – Incumbent Talisay City Mayor Johnny De los Reyes is not putting down his political gloves now that former congressman Eduardo Gullas is open to the possibility of a “rematch” in the 2016 mayoralty elections.

“It’s a big challenge to us and it is his right,” said the mayor’s son, City Administrator John Yre De los Reyes.

The mayor, who is also known as JVR, beat Gullas in May 2013 by a slim margin of votes.

De los Reyes got 39,453 while Gullas had 38,717, or a difference of 736 votes.

“We are in a democracy. Anyone has the right to run for any political position,” John Yre said.

JVR’s supposed runningmate, Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante, also said the former congressman will be the strongest bet, admitting that Gullas still has the wide support base.

“It’s a welcome development. He will be the strongest bet,” Villarante told The FREEMAN.

Of the 22 barangays in the city, the Alayon Party of Gullas controls 12 while the rest reportedly belong to JVR.

The Alayon camp and JVR’s group are said to be conducting loyalty checks on the barangays but both parties denied this.

During Gullas’ 84th birthday celebration last Monday, the former congressman did not answer directly if he is interested in the mayoralty contest.

Gullas told reporters that he will run for the post if the Talisaynons want him to.

Gullas, who was elected member of the House of Representatives in 1969 and also became Cebu governor, was mayor of Talisay from 2001 to 2004 after serving three terms in Congress.

While his expertise and experience in public service will be helpful for the city, some quarters have raised issues against Gullas, two of which are his age and health.

“Will his age permit him to run?” a City Hall worker, who requested anonymity, said.

Even Gullas’ grandson, Rep. Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas, admitted that health and his age will be an issue for the elder Gullas.

“Health will always be a factor, especially since Papa Eddie would have turned 85 this coming elections,” Samsam said in a separate interview.

Samsam, however, believes that the elder Gullas will stay strong enough if given the opportunity to serve the people of Talisay.

“Kung unsa’y calling sa iyang kasing-kasing, iyang padayonon,” Samsam said.