• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Members of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, have joined the call for Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez to seek the third district congressional post in the May 2025 elections.
“Mayor Javi Benitez has demonstrated exemplary performance in his role as the Mayor of Victorias City,” the group said in a statement posted on Facebook.
It is signed by incumbent Councilor Gabriel Villacin, lawyer Bimbo Lavides, Emil Lopez Lizares, Zenia Astorga, Ging Mahandog and Renel Garcia.
Villacin has expressed his intention to run for vice mayor in Talisay, while the five other party members are expected to run for councilor.
“His leadership has not only fostered growth and development, but has also set a benchmark for integrity and public service. Through his hard work and dedication, he has implemented programs that have significantly improved the lives of his constituents, proving that he is more than capable of addressing the needs of the third district,” the group said.
“We believe that Mayor Javi Benitez’s vision and commitment to sustainable development will serve as a driving force for progress in our district. His understanding of local issues, combined with his passion for service, positions him as the ideal representative to advocate for the aspirations of our communities,” they added.
Officials of E.B. Magalona led by Mayor Marvin Malacon, Murcia Mayor Victor Gerardo Rojas, and Silay Asenso Team led former Mayor Mark Golez have joined siblings Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez and TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez in endorsing the younger Benitez to the congressional post.
Admitting that it will be a tough decision for him, the Victorias City mayor said his decision will be known by the end of September.
The filing of certificate of candidacy for the May 2025 elections is slated Oct. 1 to 8. | GB
