Samsam debunks rumors he will run for Talisay mayor

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu First District Rep. Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas denied rumors he will run for mayor of Talisay City in 2016.

“A lot of people have been asking me to run for city mayor. I’ll say it now, as I’ve said it over and over again, I’ll be seeking for reelection,” Gullas said.

Gullas’ statement came following rumors that he will be Alayon Party’s mayoralty bet in Talisay City next election while his grandfather, former First District Rep. Eduardo Gullas, will take his place in Congress.

He clarified that his party has already agreed to let him run for a second term and even a third, if possible, while his grandfather, if health permits, will run for mayor of Talisay.

“Papa Eddie will be 83 (84 in October) in the 2016 election. I think his health is one of the things we have to consider,” he said.

The older Gullas was mayor of Talisay from 2001-2004 and was a congressman for three terms (2004-2013). He ran for mayor in Talisay last year but was defeated by 700 votes by neophyte candidate Johnny V. de los Reyes.

Observers said that with the controversies De los Reyes is facing as mayor, Gullas might just have a chance against him in 2016.

However, if he will not run for mayor, his grandson said there are other competent candidates like former mayor and now councilor Socrates Fernandez. Then again, he said, the final decision will come from the party itself and that it is too early to come up with a shortlist.  (FREEMAN)