Aznar defends Eddiegul over age issues

CEBU, Philippines - Talisay City Councilor Richard Francis Aznar defended former congressman Eduardo Gullas from allegations calling the latter too physically weak to run in the next year’s mayoral election.

The councilor issued the statement days after Mayor Johnny De los Reyes urged Talisaynons to think twice before voting for Gullas because of his age. Gullas is 85 years old.

Aznar said De los Reyes is merely spreading black propaganda.

He said Gullas is still very capable of running for mayor because he is still physically and mentally active.

"Naa man ta’y panultihon nga the best teacher is experience," Aznar said.

Aznar is the council's majority floor leader and member of dominant Alayon party, serving his second term as legislator.

He said during their visits to the barangays, they tried not leave Gullas behind. Surprisingly, he said, it was even Gullas who was always leading them in their walk.

Aznar admitted that age could be used as an issue against Gullas but he urged opponents not to “fabricate stories,” adding experience and track record should be the ultimate basis for choosing leaders.

De los Reyes earlier told reporters that someone accompanied Gullas from his car towards the office of the Commission on Elections during the filing of certificates of candidacy, as though to emphasize that Gullas could not walk on his own.

But Aznar said these allegations are baseless.

Aznar said he is hoping that the De los Reyes camp would just present its plans and programs for the city instead of “making up stories.”

In a recent interview, Gullas had said instead of dwelling on a candidate’s age, voters should look into his or her willingness and competence to serve.

“Lumba diay ni sa dagan? Pero puwede ra man pud og mao na ang criteria pagka-mayor kay puwede ra man ko bisan basketball, swimming o dagan,” said the veteran politician, who is also known as “Eddiegul.”

What’s more important, he said, is to give service to the people and to satisfy them.

Gullas also said it will be up to the constituents to choose the better leader.

“Let’s admit it, building a city is no different from building a building. In order for a building to be enduring, it needs a good foundation,” he said.

He then claimed that during his term as a mayor in 2001, he was able to build 17 schools and implemented other projects in the city.

He also said the Talisay City College, which now accommodates less fortunate students, was first pushed and realized during his incumbency.

De los Reyes will be challenged by Gullas and Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante in the race to the mayoral post next year.  (FREEMAN)