• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Partido Demokratiko Pilipino, led by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, is eyeing the fielding of a gubernatorial bet for Negros Occidental in the 2025 elections, if there is clamor to replace Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, yesterday revealed JV Hinlo, PDP deputy secretary general for Visayas.
Hinlo, who also sits as the PDP Council president of Negros Occidental, however, clarified that there is no final decision yet, as they are still in stages of consultation with their party mates and allies.
But he also admitted getting reports of dissatisfaction in the administration of Lacson.
If there is a clamor from the people, who want an alternative candidate, we are thinking of fielding (former Victorias City Mayor Francis Frederick) Palanca for governor, Hinlo said.
Asked for his reaction, Lacson, who earlier confirmed his intention to seek for a third term as governor of Negros Occidental, said he cannot choose his opponent.
Stressing that the PDP is preparing for the 2028 elections, Lacson said they need to have their own officials to try to win the next midterm elections.
If the PDP wants to do it, we can’t stop them, he added.
The Love Negros – United Negros Alliance coalition earlier pledged their full support to the planned reelection bid of Lacson.
In a statement, Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez said “I assert firmly that the governance style and decisions during former Mayor Palanca’s administration do not reflect the current and future direction of Victorias City under my leadership. Our city stands for integrity, innovation, and inclusivity values that we are committed to enhancing for the betterment of Victoriahanons.”
Stressing that it is his responsibility to be both accountable and transparent, Benitez further said “I appreciate the people’s trust and support in our government. Whatever their decision will be, we wish them well.”
On reports that former Toboso mayor Richard Jaojoco will be the running mate of Palanca, Hinlo clarified that the vice gubernatorial position is still open.
“We will leave it to our governor to choose his partner,” he said.
Hinlo said they are also studying if they will field candidates for mayor and congressman in Bacolod City, or enter into an alliance either with two major political groups in the city.
If there is a clamor, we will field a third force, Hinlo added.
PDP is also girding for the fielding candidates in other local government units and congressional districts of Negros Occidental, specifically in the 6th district, where former Hinobaan Mayor Ernesto Estrao already aired his plans to challenge incumbent Rep. Mercedes Alvares, and businessman Jurry Nabaja for the Cauayan mayoralty post, as reported by Hinlo.
“We are now in consultation with our party mates for possible fielding of PDP candidates in Negros Occidental,” Hinlo said.
Asked if the Yanson family, a staunch supporter of former President Duterte, will also extend their support to PDP candidates in the province, Hinlo replied “It is subject for confirmation,” adding that he cannot comment on the matter as of this time.*
