Davide wants Magpale as running mate in 2016

CEBU, Philippines - He did not categorically say he will run for another term in 2016, but Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III slipped during an interview with the press yesterday when he said he is against Vice Governor Agnes Magpale’s plan to retire.

“I hope she runs again. We draw strength from each other. I’d love to have her as my running mate again. She’s been very, very supportive and helpful kanako labi na kay she’s been in public service longer than I have. We make a good team,” said Davide when asked if he has heard of Magpale’s earlier pronouncement that she’s ready to retire.

At this point in time, Davide said “only Agnes” in mind as running mate.

Davide and Magpale ran together under the Liberal Party in 2013. Davide won with 654,054 votes over former third district representative Pablo John “PJ” Garcia who got 490, 148 votes. PJ is the younger brother of former governor and current third district Representative Gwendolyn Garcia.

Magpale also had a substantial lead of over 160,000 votes against her opponents Glenn Anthony Soco and Ramon “Boboy” Durano IV.

In an interview with The Freeman yesterday, Magpale said she mentioned about her possible retirement so that the party would still have enough time to look for a replacement.

“Daghan man mga batan-un. We have to give way to the young,” said the 70-year-old seasoned politician, pointing out, however, that she is physically fit to face another campaign as proven by a recent trekking activity.

In the end, she said, the last say would be with the party.

“We also have to give it to the party. The reason why I announced earlier is because if sayo pa, ma-introduce na. It’s not nagpahawid ko. Kay honestly, I’m ready to retire, but partidista man ta- subject to party decision,” Magpale explained.

She would need to consult with the two parties she is affiliated with – the national Liberal Party and BAKUD Party of Cebu’s fifth district.

“It’s up to the party, I don’t have someone in mind but I know that daghan batan-un,” she added.

Magpale said that the mayors in the fifth district have been informed about her possible retirement and most of them have reportedly asked her to reconsider another term. – (FREEMAN)