No political backing Borgonia’s reason for bowing out of polls

CEBU, Philippines — It was lack of political backing that prompted incumbent Board Member John Ismael Borgonia to withdraw his candidacy for reelection in the 3rd District of Cebu Province in the May 12 midterm polls.

In a statement, Borgonia said campaigning in a huge district like the 3rd District, which is comprised of the towns of Balamban, Asturias, Tuburan, Pinamungajan, Aloguinsan, Barili, and Toledo City, requires extensive resources and organizational support.

“Running an independent campaign across seven LGUs requires extensive resources and organizational support, which I cannot fully sustain at this time,” Borgonia said.

Borgonia, who filed his certificate of candidacy under the One Cebu Party last year, claims that he has no political party to back him in his campaign.

“Lisod buhaton ug dili nato makaya nga magpadayon isip usa ka independent candidate sa tanang aspeto --logistics, resources, ug effort.” Borgonia said in his Facebook post the other day.

The board member said he consulted with his family and team about his decision before filing his withdrawal statement. Borgonia filed the statement before the Office of the Provincial Election Supervisor on March 13.

“Rather than compromise the quality of my campaign and service, I have chosen to step back and focus on finishing my current term strong instead of pushing forward under difficult circumstances,” he added.

Sought for her reaction, Governor Gwendolyn Garcia refused to comment, except to say that Borgonia has his reasons for backing out of his candidacy.

Borgonia is supposed to seek reelection for his third term as board member.

With Borgonia’s withdrawal, only three candidates are left to compete for the two slots as the Provincial Board member in the 3rd District.

These candidates are Julius Anthony Corominas of One Cebu, Farid Baena of Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, and Dason Lorenz Lagon of LAKAS-CMD.

Even with Borgonia’s withdrawal, his name will still appear in the official ballot this election. However, votes that favor him will be counted as “stray votes” according to the Commission on Elections.