Opposition camp in Talisay may field Emit for ABC prexy

CEBU, Philippines – The opposition camp in Talisay City may field businessman and incoming captain of barangay Pooc Dory Emit in the race for the presidency of the Association of Barangay Councils, and may possibly run against reelected barangay Tabunok chief Maning Cabriana.

He may have shown interest to the position but Emit, who ran for city councilor last May 10 under the Liberal Party but lost, said if he would decline his party's offer if he would be running against Cabriana.

If Emit would run and win, he would succeed outgoing ABC president Osmundo Manreal Jr., who is his incoming first councilman.

Cabriana although associated with the administration was among the barangay chiefs who threw their support behind LP vice mayoralty candidate Aberdovey Belleza in the last May 10 polls.

He however got the backing of the administration camp in his bid for reelection last October 25.

The opposition camp, which comprises the minority in the council, is positive that it will clinch the ABC presidency post this time.

Opposition Councilor Romeo Villarante had earlier said they already have 12 of the 22 barangay captains on their side.

An ABC president chief automatically becomes an ex-officio member of the council.

Presently, the minority only has Villarante, councilors Danny Caballero and Val Ylanan.

City administrator Richel Bacaltos, campaign manager of the administration camp last May 10 elections, however rejected Villarante's claim, saying they have the numbers, especially that at least four barangay chiefs have shown willingness to jump to their camp. Cabriana may be the likely candidate of the administration, but Bacaltos said nothing is yet final. (FREEMAN)