No GMA bet yet for Ilocos Sur governor

CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur – With barely three months left before the May 14 election, President Arroyo has still no gubernatorial candidate to replace Gov. Luis "Chavit" Singson, who will run for senator under the administration party.

Political observers claim that although there are seven potential political figures who maybe fielded by the administration to run for governor, so far no one among them was endorsed to replace Singson, the acknowledged political kingpin in the North.

Members of the local media here learned that the seven possible gubernatorial candidates who have their own political machineries are board member Ronald Singson, son of the governor; former Vigan City mayor Eva Singson-Medina; incumbent Vice Gov. DV Savellano, incumbent Rep. Eric Singson; incumbent board member Jerry Singson; outgoing Rep. Salacnib Baterina; and Presidential Assistant for North Luzon Dr. Enrie Mendoza. The chances of the seven, however, depend mostly on Singson’s endorsement.

Rep. Eric Singson, who is on his 3rd term, said he has no plans to run for governor. Some believe, however, that he may file his candidacy to run for governor a few days before the last day of filing of the certificate of candidacy. They said that if he opts to run for governor, Eric may field his wife, former Rep. Grace Singson, to replace him in congress, while his eldest son Mayor Allen, may seek reelection for mayor in Candon City. Politics in Candon City is dominated by the Singson family.

Some political observers believe that the most potential candidate and a force to reckon with to run for governor is the son of Singson himself, Ronald, who was elected as board member in 2004.

His youth, they said, is not a hindrance to his bid for the highest elected post here since Ronald has already enough political experience working hand in hand with his father.

Savellano, they said, is also qualified to run for governor and his most important asset is his loyalty to the governor.

"Our capability to lead and loyalty had been proven when I run and won as governor," said Savellano, who was governor in 2001 to 2004. In the 2004 May election, however, he gave way to Singson and was elected vice governor instead.

In the opposition, meanwhile, former board member Efren Rafanan is perceived by many to run for governor and will challenge whoever the administration will field for the position.