A show of Star Power Q.C. Mayor Herbert Bautista hits 44

MANILA, Philippines - “Bossing, huwag naman!”

That was the reaction, more in jest, of Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista when asked by the movie press how he felt about the rumor that Vic “Bossing” Sotto is running against him in next year’s elections during his 44th birthday bash at the ballroom of EDSA Shangri-La last Saturday.

The rumor must have been spawned by Vic’s generosity to followers, especially the deprived, of Eat, Bulaga! on whom he showers with goodies (cash, etc.) not only during his birthday (Tsup, tsup!!!) every April 28 but, as his well-wishers seem to put it, the whole year round.

Asked if Bossing Vic will run, Bulaga! executive producer Malou Choa-Fagar, who was at the event, said, “No, he’s not.” Vic’s brother Sen. Tito Sotto was quoted to have said, “One member of the family in politics is enough.”

Also rumored to be running is TV5’s Wil Time Bigtime host Willie Revillame who categorically told this writer that he is not…not for mayor but for a higher position, maybe for congressman or for senator (under his 1Serve Foundation put up for the marginal sector of society)?

“Hmmmmm,” said Willie, “I will think about it.” Will he take stock of it while he’s in L.A. May 26 and San Francisco June 2 for the TV5 Kapatid launch there? “Hmmmmm, I will think about it,” he repeated.

Last Saturday’s bash was not Mayor Herbert’s re-election kick-off even if it looked like one. His well-wishers were a mix of bigwigs in politics and showbiz. But it was definitely a show of Star Power.

The Birthday Boy came earlier than the rest, dressed in black polo shirt, accompanied by his beloved Maria Teresa ‘Tates’ Gana and their children Athena and Harvey, dad Butch, brother Hero, and sister Harlene (with husband Romnick Sarmenta and their kids).

The elite guests were led by Speaker Sonny Belmonte, Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, Sen. Bong Revilla, former Q.C. Mayor Ismael Mathay and former Pres./Manila Mayorable Joseph “Erap” Estrada.

Pictured here are among the other well-wishers.