Congressman Francisco Benitez of the 3rd District of Negros Occidental denied that his family is forming a political dynasty in the province, with his brother, Alfredo “Albee” Benitez, gunning for the Bacolod mayorship, and nephew, Javier, filing his Certificate of Candidacy for mayor of Victorias City.
The solon said his brother has a sincere desire to serve Bacolodnons, adding that people are asking him to “lead for change” in the city.
Benitez also denied allegations that he had knowledge of, or helped in transporting people from the third district to register in Bacolod City.
He confirmed that the former congressman belongs to the PDP Laban-Cusi wing as its provincial head.
The solon yesterday announced his bid to seek a second term in the 2022 elections, and will file his COC this afternoon at the provincial Comelec at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod.
His congressional office, meanwhile, reported five major areas of accomplishment, including the filing of 277 bills which he authored or co-authored in his three years in the House of Representatives.
Benitez is the chairman of 14 technical working groups, which focus on infrastructure, health, social protection, education, and digital reskilling.
He highlighted his bills on environmental protection, digital information, comprehensive framework for urban and rural development, and post-pandemic recovery measures.
The congressional office also reported P7.1 billion worth of infrastructure projects delivered or under-process.
It added the delivery of P2.5 billion in national, local, farm-to-markets, and tourism road projects. Benitez said a portion of the P1.2 billion flood control projects has been delivered, and sourcing of funds to finish these projects is underway.
He said his office helped to realize the establishments of the Molecular Laboratory at the Teresita Jalandoni Provincial Hospital in Silay. He added that P48 million worth of health centers were constructed, and medical equipment and assistance provided to different sectors. — MML
