The close to 5,000-strong Philippine Guardians Brotherhood, Inc. yesterday endorsed Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia and Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran for their leadership and efforts to work for Bacolod’s continued economic growth despite the Covid-19 pandemic.
The PGBI, headed by executive council president Arturo Mixdon, founder Domingo San Miguel and national representative Roberto Salapante, Jr., also endorsed businessman Dan Atayde as their congressman for the Lone District of Bacolod City.
The simple endorsement ceremony was held at the Bacolod City Government Center grounds with 45 PGBI barangay chapter presidents attending.
“We, at the Philippine Guardians, want continuity. There is no need for change because Bacolod’s growth is already very evident,” Mixdon said.
It is for this reason, he continued, why his organization came forward to support Leonardia and Familiaran’s re-election.
“We also realize that Dan Atayde is the best person, who can work closely with the mayor and the vice mayor in complementing development efforts,” he added.
PGBI Bacolod has 45 barangay chapters with a total membership of 4,896 and counting.
REACTIONS
Leonardia thanked the Guardians for their endorsement.
The mayor also told the group that since his return as the LGU’s top executive in 2004, the city saw tremendous economic growth with the entry of big-ticket corporate investments that consequently changed the Bacolod landscape.
“Res ipsa liquitor. Things speak for itself,” he said.
Leonardia also expressed optimism that once the pandemic is over, Bacolod will be back on track with the economy expected to soar even higher.
Familiaran, on the other hand, said he is honored by the PGBI support.
“It’s a great privilege that we are again chosen by the group. It’s also an affirmation that the current city leadership is doing the right thing,” Familiaran said.
Atayde, a political newcomer, said he is overwhelmed by the Brotherhood’s endorsement.
“I am thankful for their support. I also realize that they are aware what Bacolod needs, a working partnership, to ensure the city’s progress; that I am capable to serve the people,” Atayde said.
“Let us unite. Let us put aside bickerings. Let us help each other. Together, we will fight. Together, we will grow,” Atayde added.*
