TALAVERA, Nueva Ecija , Philippines – First it was Eduardo Nonato. Then it’s Tomas III. Next it’s Josie Manuel. Then it’s Edward Thomas. Now, it’s Edno (Eduardo Nonato’s nickname) again.
After floating the names of three Josons as possible candidates for governor in the May 2010 elections, first district Rep. Eduardo Nonato Joson has emerged as the most likely standard-bearer of the Joson-led Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija to challenge reelectionist Gov. Aurelio Umali barely two weeks before the deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy for all elective positions nationwide.
Talavera Mayor Nery Santos told The STAR that Eduardo Nonato, is the overwhelming choice of Balane party leaders to challenge Umali’s reelection bid.
“Our leaders like him. Even the people of Cabanatuan like him to run for governor,” Santos said, adding that the congressman is considered more approachable and accessible to the people compared to the incumbent governor.
The choice of Eduardo Nonato came five months after comebacking former first district Rep. Josie Manuel-Joson, wife of former vice governor Mariano Cristino, was declared Balane’s official gubernatorial bet. – Manny Galvez