Pagcor chief says son eyes Makati's top post

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) chairman Efraim Genuino said yesterday that he is taking a backseat in the 2010 elections and just might let his two sons run for mayor in Makati City and in Los Baños, Laguna.

Genuino, who was a guest in yesterday’s 111th anniversary of the Philippine Postal Corp. (Philpost), told reporters he has “no plans (to be part of the elections). I am not interested in politics, I am interested in giving service.”

He said his two middle children are planning to take a shot for mayoralty seats. He has four children.

Erwin, a 28-year-old lawyer, is reportedly interested in running as mayor of Makati City, considering that the city’s incumbent mayor, Jejomar Binay, is running for vice president.

Erwin ran for congressman in Makati’s second district in 2007 but lost to Binay’s daughter, Marlen Abigail.

Genuino’s other son, Anthony, 27, is reportedly considering running for mayor in Los Banos, Laguna.

Genuino said he is a resident of Makati City, but they also have a house in Laguna. He said their political party, Bigkis Pinoy, is in a coalition with Lakas-NUCD-UNDP.

Even if there are already reports that there has been an “exodus” of politicians leaving the administration party, Genuino said he is not inclined to disengage himself from the coalition. He also does not believe the speculation that to be associated with President Arroyo would be a “kiss of death” for candidates.