PJ Garcia eyes popular running mate; wins support of 1st district mayors

ONE Cebu’s gubernatorial bet Rep. Pablo John Garcia said he wanted Provincial Board (PB) Member Julian Daan to be his running mate for the 2013 elections.

Garcia said his “stature” and long service in the PB made Daan a strong candidate.

Daan, whose mass appeal as a radio drama personality, helped win his post, however, declined the offer, citing health reasons.

“Dili na makaya sa akong lawas, (My health can’t take it),” said Daan.

He said his doctor advised him to reduce his work load. Daan said he will finish his last term as PB member for the 1st district and continue to support One Cebu.

Four mayors in the district met with the Garcias on Wednesday and pledged support for Pablo John’s candidacy.

Rep. Eduardo Gullas was not around in the evening meeting at the Marco Polo Plaza, but reportedly gave his permission for them to attend.

This occured hours after Gullas declared he’s running for Talisay city mayor,

Naga Mayor Valdemar Chiong said he and three other mayors in the first district, namely Carcar City Mayor Nicepuro Apura, Sibonga Mayor Lionel Bacaltos, Minglanilla Mayor Eduardo Selma,  and former San Fernando Mayor Lakambini “Neneth” Reluya showed up to have declared their support for PJ Garcia.

“We have been supporting Governor Garcia so padayon ang panagkuyog namo,” said Chiong.

No document was signed, but Chiong said their verbal pledge was enough assurance to Governor Garcia and her brother.

He said they were invited to the meeting by the Garcias who wanted to thank them for their support.

San Fernando Mayor Antonio Canoy is reportedly being drafted by the administration Liberal Party (LP) to run for the 1st district congressional post.

Gullas is fielding his grandson grandson Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas as Alayon Party’s congressional bet next year.

Although declaring support to for Garcia, Rep. Gullas said last Wednesday that his Alayon Party remains committed to support Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale who will run under the LP.

Rep. Garcia however may find consolation that despite the announcement of Gullas, two mayors — Chiong and Bacaltos, allied with Gullas said they are not yet certain to support Magpale’s bid.

They said they will still talk it over with Rep. Gullas.

Pablo John said that despite the political realignment in the 5th district, he said that One Cebu can still put up a good fight there.

He said that they are seeing a possible alliance with incumbent Danao City Mayor Ramon “Boy” Durano Jr.

However, they will have to meet and discuss this in person.