LP undaunted by Negros Occiental solon’s move to back Poe–Erice

The Liberal Party (LP) on Friday said Negros Occidental Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez was eyeing to become House Speaker under a Grace Poe administration after he declared his support for Poe and Sen. Francis ‘Chiz” Escudero.

“We really expect Albee Benitez as early as last year (to support Poe). I heard that he was eyeing the speakership under a Poe administration,  besides there is a local dispute, since Governor (Alfredo) Marañon is supporting Mar (Roxas) who is not in good terms with Cong Albee,” Caloocan Rep. and Liberal Party chairman for political affairs Rep. Edgar Erice said.

Benitez is the fourth richest member of Congress and former Liberal Party chair in the province.

On Friday, he said announced his backing for the candidacies of Poe and Escudero.
“We need new blood to lead this country,” he said during a sortie of Poe and Escudero in Bacolod City.
READ: Negros Occidental solon backs Poe, Escudero

Erice said the support of Benitez for the Poe-Escudero tandem would not be affecting LP’s chances of winning in the vote-rich province.

“I think Cong. Alby is a marginalized political force in Negros. Actually it’s a good riddance since it will simplify our political situation in Negros,” Erice said.

READ: LP leader Benitez leaves ruling party

Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. earlier declared to support the candidacy of Manuel “Mar Roxas” II and other LP candidates. CDG

READ: Roxas’ ties to Negros pols ‘complicated’