Clash of clan members seen in Nueva Ecija polls

SAN JOSE CITY, Philippines – The Violagos, the reigning political clan and considered one of the most powerful political dynasties in Nueva Ecija, are in for a feud as the wife of outgoing Rep. Joseph Gilbert Violago and his elder brother are seeking to replace him in the 2016 elections.

Joseph’s wife Mikki and his brother Joselito are seeking the congressional post for the second district, which covers this city and the Muñoz Science City, and the towns of Carranglan, Llanera, Lupao, Pantabangan, Rizal and Talugtog.

Asked to comment on his brother’s bid, Joseph said he has accepted it.

“That’s how it goes,” he said, adding there’s nothing he can do to stop it.

Mikki is a sister of former vice mayor Mario Salvador, who will seek the mayoral post against former mayor Alexander Belena.

Belena’s wife is Joseph’s sister, outgoing Mayor Marivic Violago-Belena.

Salvador ran twice but lost to Marivic. His bid is supported by Joseph, who previously backed Marivic.

The Belena couple is supporting Joselito.   

The Violagos own businesses in this city and elsewhere, including rice mills, gasoline stations and car dealership.

Joseph, chairman of the House committee on appropriations, is listed as the richest congressman in Nueva Ecija and one of the top 20 nationwide in terms of net worth.

The conflict among the Violago siblings erupted when Joseph initially endorsed his youngest brother, Josel, as his successor in the 2016 congressional elections.

This reportedly angered Joselito, who questioned Joseph’s decision, noting he is older than Josel.

Joseph decided to field his wife after Josel backed out, despite getting the support of their sisters.

He said he has the right to choose who should succeed him, adding Joselito should respect it.

He said his wife is qualified to run for Congress, being a nurse, an accomplished businesswoman and a civic leader.