Former judges seek new roles in May polls

With no political machinery nor funding to back them up, two retired Cebu judges threw their hats into the political ring, vying for a seat in Congress and a municipal council in the May elections.

Former Municipal Trial Court in Cities (MTCC) Judge Donato Sotero Navarro said he chose to run for the congressional seat of Cebu City’s north district to put an end to political dynasties.

“We seek ordinary men and women to manifest interest in holding a position in government. In this manner, there would be a bigger pool of non-traditional candidates to choose from,” he said.

Navarro is running against former Rep. Raul del Mar and celebrity talent manager Anabelle Rama for the seat.

“I don’t think the two candidates will really take care of the district and answer important issues in Cebu City,” Navarro said.

The 49-year-old Navarro used to be the presiding judge of the MTCC Branch 4 in Cebu City before he called it quits five years ago.

If he wins, Navarro said he would focus on implementing a sewage system, drainage improvement and universal health care as well as address child prostitution in Cebu City.

“Some issues are completely ignored compared to flyovers. I’m willing to debate with either of the candidates,” Navarro said.

Like Navarro, former Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Olegario Sarmiento is seeking public office.

Sarmiento availed of optional retirement last year before he filed for candidacy for the municipal council of Alcantara, southwest Cebu.

“It’s high time for me to venture in other fields of endeavor,” he said.

“I kept telling my staff that our work is public service, that we must deliver services to the people as end-users. I’m trying to see if I have the opportunity to serve the people in the local legislative body.”

Sarmiento has served as chairman of the board of the Cebu City Operation Second Chance Center since 2004.

He was one of seven judges who handled the parricide case against cult leader and former Dinagat Island congressman Ruben Ecleo Jr.

Sarmiento was a practicing lawyer for 15 years before he was appointed judge in 1992. Reporter Ador Vincent Mayol