• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson has expressed his appreciation to the declaration of Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez that their family will support his reelection bid in the May 2025 midterm elections.
“Their trust and confidence, coming from well-respected colleagues in public service, validate the hard work and unifying initiatives that the present administration has done for the province,” Lacson said in a statement.
A senior official of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) earlier hinted the possibility of former Victorias City Mayor Francis Frederick Palanca challenging Lacson in the gubernatorial race.
Palanca is the cousin of the late Betty Bantug Benitez, mother of siblings Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez and Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, the latter being the father of the incumbent Victorias City mayor.
“It is very reassuring to know that the Benitez family, through Mayor Javi, reaffirmed once again their support for my reelection. This support is an affirmation for me to continue serving our province and our people with resolute dedication and accountability,” Lacson said.
The Love Negros and United Negros Alliance (UNegA) coalition have also expressed their full support to Lacson, who will seek a third and final term.
As of this time, there is no word yet from Palanca on whether he will accept the possible endorsement from PDP as the party’s gubernatorial candidate in Negros Occidental.
Palanca and former Hinobaan Mayor Ernesto Estrao took their oath as members of the PDP, which is now headed by Senator Robin Padilla, in Cebu City.
Estrao is eyeing to challenge incumbent Rep. Mercedes Alvarez in the sixth district congressional race. | GB
