LP to return to Cebu soon to discuss with local leaders

CEBU, Philippines - Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, the standard-bearer of the Liberal Party in next year’s elections, will be back in Cebu “anytime” soon to confer with party leaders here about LP’s plans for 2016.

Roxas disclosed this to local LP leaders during his visit to Cebu last Monday together with President Benigno Simeon Aquino III for the “Gathering with Friends” at the New Cebu Coliseum.

Vice Governor Agnes Magpale, who joined the activity, did not divulge the specifics of the meeting but hinted that it would be more about the provincial slate.

“Last night (Monday) nag-istorya mi, ingon siya nga makig-meet ko ninyo bisan lang sa airport. We are waiting for that… Yes, it’s all about the slate, naa nay prospect but di pa gyod formal,” she told reporters.

She was with Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III and some members of the Provincial Board during the event. Davide was on-leave yesterday.  Magpale added that what they initially discussed with Roxas in Monday’s gathering were concerns involving mayors belonging to LP that need to be resolved the soonest time possible.

“Naa tay husayunon. You know very well that there are original LP (members) unya daghang bag-o mi-join. Kinahanglan ipahimutang asa gyod,” she said.

When asked if there are LP members launching their bids for the same position in 2016 elections, Magpale said, “It’s understandable that with the new entries dunay dyutay nga problema.”

She further mentioned that among the things that the LP has to address is the political gap between Talisay City Mayor Johnny De los Reyes and Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante, both belong to the LP.

Villarante earlier said he would have no second thoughts in shifting to another political party or running as an independent should the LP choose the incumbent mayor over him to be its standard bearer in Talisay City.

In January this year, De los Reyes was appointed as chairman of LP in the city for the coming 2016 elections.

“I believe proper dialogue mahilot tingale ni,” Magpale said.

Magpale is affiliated with local party Barug Alang sa Kauswagan ug Demokrasya (Bakud). The LP and Bakud have been coalition partners after sealing their formal alliance in 2012. — (FREEMAN)