Ecija pols welcome lawmaker’s plan to run for gov

CABANATUAN CITY , Philippines  â€“ Political leaders in Nueva Ecija have crossed party lines to support the plan of the camp of Gov. Aurelio Umali to field his wife, third district Rep. Czarina Umali, in the 2016 gubernatorial race.

Stalwarts of the Umalis’ Unang Sigaw Partido ng Pagbabago and its rival party, the Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija of the Josons, said Rep. Umali’s entry in the race for the governorship is a welcome development.

Earlier, Gov. Umali announced that his wife would definitely run for governor in 2016 with Vice Gov. Jose Gay Padiernos as her running mate.

When told that their critics might raise the issue of political dynasty against them, a charge also leveled against the Josons, the governor said, “We are elected. The Josons lost. Anyway, the people will decide.”  

Gabaldon Mayor Rolando Bue, a close ally of the Umalis, said the congresswoman’s foray into the governorship would ensure the continuity of the programs and projects already laid down by the governor.

“I think nine years are really not enough to realize all the visions of Gov. Umali. What is important is continuity and sustainability. And besides, I know the congresswoman is very capable,” he said.

Another Umali ally, Llanera Mayor Lorna Mae Vero, said the choice of the congresswoman comes as no surprise. “It is long expected,” she said.

Guimba Mayor Jose Francis Stevens Dizon, Bongabon Mayor Allan Xystus Gamilla, and Talavera Mayor Nerivi Santos-Martinez, all staunch allies of the Josons, also welcome the development.

Dizon said Rep. Umali has a wealth of experience to lead the provincial capitol. “It’s a welcome development I think,” he said.

Gamilla echoed Dizon, saying the congresswoman’s stint in Congress where she served for three terms would come in handy when she seeks the governorship in 2016.

“I think she is qualified although she is not a party mate,” he added.

Santos-Martinez said the congresswoman has the qualifications to run for the position, adding: “I’m a woman like her. I know that she is equally capable. For as long as she has the heart to serve, it’s okay.”

Neophyte first district Rep. Estellita Suansing, who ran under the Umali ticket last May, said she respects the decision of Rep. Umali to seek the highest post in the province.

“If that’s her decision, I will support her all the way,” said Suansing, wife of resigned Bureau of Customs deputy commissioner Horacio Suansing.

Outgoing second district Rep. Joseph Gilbert Violago, who himself is said to be planning to run for governor, said it’s up to the Umalis who they want to field. “If that’s their plan, they have every right to do so,” he said.