• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
With numerous endorsements for Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez to run for congressman, representing the 3rd district of Negros Occidental, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday described it as a “logical choice.”
“He is more than competent for the position, I know he can handle (it),” Lacson said when asked if he will also endorse Mayor Javi to succeed Representative Jose Francisco Benitez, who was recently appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the TESDA secretary.
But I am more of the impression that he is more comfortable with an executive position. I think let’s wait for Mayor Javi to decide, the governor further said.
Mayors Marvin Malacon and Gerry Rojas, Sangguniang Bayan of E.B. Magalona, Sangguniang Panlungsod of Talisay and some members of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, and Team Asenso of Silay City led by former Mayor Mark Golez, have joined Bacolod City Mayor and father of Javi, Alfredo Abelardo Benitez and TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco, his uncle, in urging the neophyte mayor to run for the 3rd district congressional post.
The younger Benitez, who appreciates all the endorsements, said it will be a tough decision for him.
“I will make my decision at the end of the month of September this year,” he said, stressing that he is still in the process of consulting his team mates and fellow Victoriasanons.
For the elections to be held in May next year, the filing of Certificate of Candidacies is slated for October 1 to 8 this year.*
