Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia yesterday received presidential candidate Panfilo “Ping” Lacson Sr. and his running mate, Senate President Tito Sotto during their courtesy visit at the Bacolod City Government Center.
Lacson and Sotto were accompanied by senatorial candidates Manny Piñol and Minguita Padilla and Lacson-Sotto Support group coordinator for Negros Occidental, Jun Ballesteros, among others.
“Kahit bilyonaryo ang kalaban niya, walang ka talo-talo si Mayor Bing (Even if going against a billionaire, Mayor Bing won’t lose),” Ballesteros said, answering Lacson’s question on how Leonardia is faring in his campaign.
“The explanation is performance and leadership. Walang substitute. Kasi pag ikaw na re-elect for his 18th year today, sure na mag 18 years na si Mayor Bing. Thank you very much for the very warm reception,” Lacson said in response.
“It is rare to have someone that is highly respected in the Senate and respected over the Philippines. His integrity is unquestioned because he may be the only senator who doesn’t want to get the pork barrel. We are very privileged to have with us today one who is famous in the Philippines and we are very happy of his presence here,” the mayor said as he introduced Lacson.
Sotto thanked Mayor Bing Leonardia for having them and allowing them to pay a courtesy call to him and to the people of Bacolod City.
Leonardia earlier said that Bacolod is an open city and welcomes all presidential aspirants.
But he pointed out that he remains neutral in the presidential race.*
