• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Former Mayor Evelio Leonardia confirmed Monday night, Sept. 30, that he will run for congressman of the Lone District of Bacolod City in the May 2025 midterm elections.
The development came as Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, through his spokesman Singcang-Airport village chief Caesar Distrito, also announced that he is “90% sure” of seeking the congressional post.
Their looming face-off would be similar to the scenario in the May 2022 elections when they run against each other for mayor.
Leonardia was defeated by Benitez in his quest for a third and final term.
The position of the Lone District representative is set to be vacated by Rep. Greg Gasataya, who will finish his third and final term in June next year.
In radio interviews, Leonardia, who had served as congressman from 2013 to 2016, said that he will file his certificate of candidacy Tuesday (Oct. 1), after a 2 p.m. mass at the San Sebastian Cathedral.
He was issued a certificate of acceptance and nomination by the Nacionalista Party for the May 2025 elections. | GB
