P’sinan leaders unite for GMA

STO. TOMAS, Pangasinan — Now, it’s official. Pangasinan leaders are no longer torn between two presidential bets.

Setting aside their political affiliations, political leaders in this vote-rich province under Biskeg na Pangasinan (Strength of Pangasinan) have formally declared their support for the candidacy of President Arroyo.

They made the announcement here Wednesday night, a few hours before the start of official campaigning for local candidates, in a press conference held at the residence of Sto. Tomas Mayor Antonio Villar Jr., Biskeg founder who incidentally celebrated his birthday that day.

In a statement read by Vice Gov. Oscar Lambino, acting provincial chairman of the Lakas-Christian-Muslim Democrats (CMD) and Biskeg spokesman, the group said, "We have enough faith in the members of Biskeg that after our consensus today, we will all concentrate our efforts toward achieving one goal, that is to ensure the victory of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in Pangasinan in the May 10 presidential polls."

"We could deliver to the President the majority votes she rightfully deserves, being a true daughter of the province," the group added.

Pangasinan has about 1.2 million registered voters, the second largest voting population next to Cebu.

Mrs. Arroyo’s mother hailed from Binalonan town, while the father of her closest rival, actor Fernando Poe Jr., was born in San Carlos City.

Since the start of the campaign period, Mrs. Arroyo has visited the province five times, while Poe campaigned here only once.

Biskeg cited Mrs. Arroyo’s "experience, intellectual capability, quality leadership, strong governance and proven track record in dealing with various problems besetting our country today."

Biskeg, which originated in the third district of Pangasinan, has spread its membership from the western to the eastern parts of the province, becoming an agent of unity among Pangasinan leaders, Lambino said.

Today, Biskeg counts among its members more than 30 mayors, four congressmen, 12 board members and several vice mayors and councilors, with Gov. Victor Agbayani, who is seeking a third term, as honorary member. — With Cesar Ramirez