Chiong denies building dynasty

CEBU, Philippines - Naga City Mayor Valdemar Chiong yesterday morning contested allegations he is building a political dynasty in the city after two of his brothers filed their certificates of candidacy for city council seats.

In an interview with Mayor Chiong after he had filed his certificate of candidacy, the mayor said he sees nothing wrong with three Chiong serving in public office. 

His brother, Otello Chiong and Association of Barangay Captains president Virgilio Chiong are running under his ticket. 

“It does not follow families running together in elections because in the end, it will be the people of Naga City that will decide,” the mayor said, who is running under the local Alayon party founded by Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gullas, the group which has an alliance with the Nacionalista Party. 

Naga City is one of the first class cities of Cebu province.

As of press time, no other candidate in Naga City filed their COCs. 

Chiong’s running mate is incumbent Vice Mayor Delfin Señor. 

“Maayo unta kung wala ta’y kontra,” Chiong said but said he will have just to wait until October 5, which is the last day of filing of COC. 

In Minglanilla, outgoing mayor Eduardo Selma will seek a council seat while his son, city councilor Robert John, will vie for the vice mayor position.

Incumbent Vice Mayor Elanito Peña will run for mayor under the NP.

They are set to file their COCs on Friday. 

Unlike in Naga City, Mayor Nicepuro Apura will be facing off with Liberal Party bet councilor Roberto B. Aleonar Jr. 

But it will be an easy victory for incumbent Vice Mayor Patrick Barcenas since he has no opponent as of press time. 

Aleonar filed his COC last Monday while Apura and Barcenas filed their COCs yesterday morning.   (FREEMAN)