Ex-P’sinan mayor named Palace local gov’t adviser

STO. TOMAS, Pangasinan — President Arroyo has appointed a former mayor of this town, considered a kingmaker in the province and who became known nationwide for giving "zero vote" to the late actor-turned-presidential bet Fernando Poe Jr., as presidential assistant for local government (public order and safety).

Former Sto. Tomas mayor Antonio "Bebot" Villar Jr. got the post just a few months after he resigned as assistant secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

When he quit his DOTC post, he ranted about the alleged corruption in the department.

Villar, who was Sto. Tomas mayor for more than 20 years and who ran unopposed in all his mayoralty fights, except in one, earned the President’s favor after he led his group, Biskeg na Pangasinan (Strength of Pangasinan), in rallying behind her candidacy in the 2004 elections.

Biskeg is composed of the majority of mayors, vice mayors and councilors in the province.

Villar confirmed his new position in a phone interview with The STAR, saying he will hold office in Malacañang and will report directly to the President.

"I am very grateful to the President for her continued trust and confidence in me. I hope I could be of help to the administration. I will do my best and deliver the services expected of me," he said.

Bayambang Mayor Leocadio de Vera Jr., Biskeg na Pangasinan executive vice president, said he and his fellow mayors welcome Villar’s new designation.

"Manong Bebot (as he is fondly called by Pangasinan mayors) has shown his good leadership as evidenced by his stature as a respected Pangasinan kingmaker," De Vera said.

Villasis Mayor Nonato Abrenica, a close friend of Villar, said Pangasinenses are proud to have a provincemate like Villar who is trusted by the President.