- MITCH M. LIPA
The camp of Bacolod mayoral bet Alfredo “Albee” Benitez claimed that he is the “clear winner” in the online townhall debate organized by the UP Law Alumni Association Negros Occidental Chapter Jan. 15.
“While his rival declined to participate in the debate, Benitez showed Bacolodnons that he is ready to serve them with no excuses,” his camp said.
Benitez answered questions from different sectors confidently, and demonstrated wide knowledge and presented clear solutions to existing problems in Bacolod.
He added that he welcomed the conduct of any forum, in whatever platform and format, where he can present his vision and highlight his plans for Bacolod.
“I only wish I had more time to answer the many questions of the sectors, and elaborate on my plans to address their needs and concerns,” he added.
The Benitez camp added that the team of Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia already had communications with the debate organizers months before, adding that they were surprised by the withdrawal.
“Our camp was the last to know about the platform, format, and the mechanics. But still, we decided to push through because we value Bacolodnons and we owe them the education and information about our intention and platforms,” Atty. Andrei Norman Saril, Benitez’s legal adviser, said.
The debate organizers thanked Benitez for his time and effort in making it to the townhall debate. They hope that it will help voters in making well-informed judgment based on critical issues when they exercise their right to vote on May 9. | MML
