Chavit Singson for senator?

VIGAN CITY — Don’t look now but local radio reports that the life story of the former Ilocos Sur governor and acknowledged political kingpin of the north will be filmed, has fueled speculations that he will be running for senator next year.

It was noted that candidates for national positions had resorted to having their lives turned into movies for maximum exposure. Observers cited Sen. Serge Osmeña‘s ‘Escape’ and the late President Marcos’ Iginuhit ng Tadhana among the politically-oriented movies that allegedly ensured their subjects’ election.

The forthcoming 2004 polls include seats for 12 senators and Singson fans here believe Chavit can make it with or without the movie.

"Kayang-kaya niya kahit walang pelikula (He can win even without the movie)," Alfredo Custodio, a mechanic, told The STAR yesterday. He said that the former governor is well known throughout the country and that Filipinos are indebted to him for his role in dislodging an "abusive" president.

Ilocos Sur mayor’s league president Santa Mayor Jesus Bueno Jr. also said that if Singson would run for the Senate "he could land in the top five slot." "But I believe he is more interested in developing his province," he said.

Singson himself frowned on the idea (senatorial bid) when reached by Vigan newsmen Friday evening.

"If I should run at all, I would seek back the governorship," he said. He will do so, he stressed, if the local opposition would not stop airing out "baseless" charges and criticisms against him. "The election will be the best gauge and I will submit myself to the judgment of the people," he said.

Singson confirmed that a movie outfit owned by film director Carlo Caparas will start filming his story shortly. He said actor Cesar Montano will portray him in the movie while Dina Bonnevie will act as his wife.

He laughed when asked on who will play the roles of his other rumored love interests.

The former governor said: "Even King Solomon is said to have had 700 wives but this did not affect his effectivity in leading his people."