Son takes on ‘unfinished’ business of late solon

AUMENTADO

He likens public service to a religion.

For businessman Erico “Aris” Aumentado Jr., who seeks to replace his late father as congressman in the second district of Bohol, following this calling is the best way to honor his father, who died on Dec. 25, 2012, with an unfinished term.

“It is something that I believe in,” Aumentado said in an interview with the Inquirer.

He said his goal is inclusive growth for Bohol, particularly in his district, to address massive poverty and unemployment.

The 35-year-old graduate of business administration from the University of San Carlos and the youngest in a brood of nine vowed to continue his father’s program for tourism, agricultural and industrial development if elected.

“There are no politicians or lawyers among us children. Nobody wanted to be in politics. But when my father died, we decided to continue his unfinished business in public service and so, I decided to run,” he said.

If elected, Aumentado said he will focus on providing cheap electricity by pushing for a hydroelectric power plant at Northeast Basin Multi-Purpose Dam and another power plant at Bayongan Dam.

He also said he would give priority to agricultural development.

“We have enough fertile lands in Bohol, which can produce food for our people,” he said.

Aumentado also said he would push for the construction of the Cebu-Bohol Friendship Bridge, which will accelerate trade between Bohol and Cebu and other provinces.

He would also push for expanded road networks and support the construction of Ubay Airport.

He listed his other programs, like more computers for public schools, scholarships for poor students, cheap medicines through village drug stores, medical missions for poor communities and increased funding for public hospitals.