Soco campaigns in ‘enemy territory’

CEBU, Philippines -  Businessman Glenn Anthony Soco has launched his massive campaign for vice governor in the fifth district of the Province of Cebu, the bailiwick of his two opponents for the same position.

Running as an independent candidate, Soco has just visited the three towns of Camotes Island and talked to multi-sectoral groups.

Within the week, Soco is set to visit more towns in the fifth district the bailiwick of his opponents, acting Governor Agnes Magpale of the Liberal Party and Ramon “Boboy” Durano IV of One Cebu, who both hail from Danao City.

Soco is the first vice gubernatorial candidate in Cebu Province who has visited the different puroks, private schools and met with different sectors there, said former councilor Luciano Arias of San Francisco town.

Arias said other candidates only stop at the town proper to meet town and barangay officials as well as barangay health workers.

“Lahi kaayo si Mr. Soco kay misuroy gyud siya sa mga purok unya naminaw gyud sa sentimento sa mga tawo ug mihatag usab sa mga maayong giya ilabi na gayud sa negosyo,” said Arias.

Soco also met students of the Cebu Technological University campus in San Francisco town and Mt. Moriah College in Poro town where he provided input on applying for jobs once they graduate or choose to run their own business.

Rolando Lawas, one of the top officials of Mt. Moriah College said Soco is the first candidate running for a top position in Cebu Province who visited their school since it was established in 1996.

“Kadaghanan sa mga maestro ug mga estudyante wala gyud dayon mutuo nga mubisita namo diri si Mr. Soco,” said Lawas.

Soco also met officials of Camotes Electric Cooperative, Inc. in Poro town who briefed him on the power situation in the town.

Soco said Camotes Island is now known for its tourist destinations and one important thing to do is to improve its basic requirements such as power, water and transportation.

During his two-day visit to the island, Soco also visited municipal halls of San Francisco, Poro and Tudela where he was welcomed by some officials and employees.

“Wala gyud mi problema ni Mr. Soco kay nakaila naman mi niya niadtong pang 2010 ug bisan human sa eleksyon kay nagsige man siya og balik dinhi,” an employee of Poro town said.

Soco also warmly welcomed by vendors when he visited the markets in Poro and Tudela towns.

Soco become known to barangay officials, senior citizens, health workers, women, youth and others sectors in Camotes Island since he ran as running mate of suspended Governor Gwendolyn Garcia in the 2010 elections.   (FREEMAN)