7-way fight for ARMM gov

It will be a seven-way fight for governor in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Aug. 11 polls, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said yesterday.

According to Comelec spokesman James Jimenez, seven persons made official their intention to run for the position of ARMM regional governor” by filing their certificates of candidacy (COCs).

Five persons, on the other hand, want to run for regional vice governor and 78 for members of ARMM’s legislative assembly for the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-tawi and Shariff Kabunsuan.

The seven gubernatorial candidates are incumbent Gov. Zaldy Ampatuan (Lakas-CMD); Jupakar Pindah-Asia Arabani, Ismail Berto Ibrahim, Alvarez Silal Isnaji, Ahmad Darping Nooh and Ali Jumadil Omar (all independent) and Gulmid Panalangin Matalam (Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino).

Those who want to run for vice governor are Ansaruddin-Abdul Malik Alonto Adiong (Lakas-CMD); Kadra Asani Masihul (Kilusang Bagong Lipunan); Kursid Hajirie Sampang, Alex Andul Qayyum Langco Ambong and Allani Jr. Tan Susulan (all independent). – Sheila Crisostomo