Gordon, Zubiri deny plans to run with UNA

Is Vice President Jejomar Binay jumping the gun on major candidate announcements for 2016 by including people in United Nationalist Alliance’s (UNA) senatorial slate without their knowledge?

At least two former senators—Richard Gordon and Miguel Zubiri—have denied reports they will stand for election in 2016, much less under Binay’s UNA.

In a text message, Gordon said: “If or when I do run for whatever position, I will make my own announcement.”

In a phone interview, Zubiri said he had yet to make up his mind on what he would do next year. “I’m still enjoying my time with my family and my business. I still have no plans nor have I made any decision to re-enter politics.

Asked if he would run under UNA should he decide to make a political comeback, Zubiri said: “No comment.”

Both Gordon and Zubiri ran and lost under UNA in the 2013 elections.

They were among the more prominent persons that UNA cited as prospective senatorial candidates in 2016.

The others were Sen. Tito Sotto, boxer and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao, Valenzuela Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian, Buhay Rep. Lito Atienza, Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, former Cagayan Rep. Jack Enrile, Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado, Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno and Public Attorney’s Office chief Persida Acosta.–Gil Cabacungan