Ex-Pagcor chief Genuino loses in Laguna congressional race

STA. CRUZ, Laguna – Former Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) chief Efraim Genuino lost in his bid to represent Laguna’s second district in Congress.

The Commission on Elections on Tuesday afternoon proclaimed Ruth Hernadez as the winner of the congressional race.

She defeated Genuino, Isidro Hemedes, Jr., Banjo Caringal, Tirso Laviña, and Rosauro Revilla.

Hernandez garnered 76,65 votes, while Genuino got 68,371 votes.

Hernandez, a former Laguna board member from Calamba City, is the wife of reelectionist Governor Ramil Hernandez.

In September 2018, President Duterte signed the law that separated Calamba City from the first congressional district, leaving only the towns of Los Baños and Bay and Cabuyao City.

An ally of former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Genuino claims residence in Los Baños where his son, Ton, once served as its mayor.

Several days ahead of the midterm elections, the Sandiganbayan acquitted Genuino of perjury in relation to his statement of assets, liabilities and networth.

The Sandiganbayan, in February, likewise dismissed the graft charges filed against Genuino. (Editor: Gilbert S. Gaviola)