Defensor to seek Quezon City's top post

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine National Railways chief Michael Defensor bared his plans yesterday to run for mayor in Quezon City next year.

“I will make my formal announcement in two to three weeks,” Defensor told The STAR in a telephone interview.

He declined to categorically state under what political party he would run but said, “I’ve always been a Liberal.”

Defensor, once a three-term congressman from Quezon City, said he has been seeking advice from Quezon City Mayor Feliciano “Sonny” Belmonte Jr., who is a ranking official in the ruling Lakas-Kampi-CMD party.

Presidential Advisor for Political Affairs Gabriel Claudio said he spoke late last week with Defensor regarding his bid to run for mayor in Quezon City.

“He (Defensor) is being endorsed by many well-meaning sectors including major political players,” Claudio said in a telephone interview, “He promised to work things out in coordination with us.”

Defensor has held several posts in the Arroyo administration, including as presidential chief of staff. He said he has not yet told President Arroyo of his plans.

He noted that according to the World Bank and other international agencies, Quezon City is one of the leading cities in the country in terms of human development.

“This is to the credit of Mayor Belmonte. According to the World Bank, a leadership crisis could lead to the downfall of Quezon City,” Defensor said.