BY CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
Vice presidential aspirant Sara Duterte-Carpio was welcomed by Bacolod City officials led by Mayor Evelio Leonardia and barangay officials under Grupo Progreso during a social visit she paid on the mayor at the Bacolod City Government Center yesterday.
Leonardia said he was informed by Duterte-Carpio’s advance party that they will have a private talk. But she was surprised to see other people. So, she was very humble to seek the support of the barangay captains and they responded very positively. “I think they will support her all the way.”
He is a member of the Nationalista Party (NP) and although they have not yet talked officially, they will take it as things evolve. What is very clear is that they are supporting her and that they will be waiting for the presidential candidate that the NP will support, the mayor said.
Leonardia said he reported to Duterte-Carpio that Bacolod had no fatalities or injuries as a result of Typhoon Odette. “So, I think other local governments, who have been badly affected by Typhoon Odette, need her help more than us,” when asked if the Davao Mayor has extended any assistance to the city.
Leonardia told reporters during an interview that Duterte-Carpio had her picture taken with the barangay captains present. She has a heart to be personal with her constituents, which he said is her charm or charisma.
“He also noticed that when she speaks everybody listened. So, I think when I see her, she is a sure winner for the vice presidency”, he said.
Duterte-Carpio, who is running under the Lakas-CMD, said she is empathizing with the people of Bacolod City who have been badly affected by Typhoon Odette especially those who lost their loved ones and even their houses.
She was surprised to see many people welcoming her at the BCGC. She wished the people of Bacolod a peaceful and Covid-free Christmas that they will be able to spend with their loved ones and also wished that the New Year will bring them more blessing from God.
Duterte-Carpio said President Rodrigo Duterte went to Kabankalan yesterday to assess the damage caused by the super typhoon in these areas. He also extended his gratitude to the people for supporting him during the 2016 elections including his administration.
“Our family is greatly indebted to all of you because of the love and support you have given us. We will repay you through our services,” she said.*
