Govs, North Luzon lawmakers back Singson’s senatorial bid

VIGAN CITY — The Provincial Governors League of the Philippines has endorsed the senatorial bid of Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis "Chavit" Singson to President Arroyo at Malacañang last week.

The governors’ endorsement came a few days after the 31-strong Northern Luzon Alliance headed by Speaker Jose de Venecia had also endorsed Singson’s candidacy.

The alliance, composed of congressmen from the North, believes that Singson could easily win in the Senate race due to his popularity, integrity and courage in exposing illegal activities.

"Gov. Singson is a man of courage and a great son of the North," said De Venecia as he raised the governor’s hand in a gathering at Rembrandt Hotel in Quezon City.

Meanwhile, various non-government organizations here, mostly composed of farmers and fishermen, urged Dr. Enrie Mendoza, presidential assistant for North Luzon, to throw his hat into the political arena and run for congressman in Ilocos Sur’s second district.

Political observers here said Mendoza has the talent, wide experience and high educational attainment that could make him an asset to the province once he is elected as congressman.

Newsmen gathered that members of the Guardian Brotherhood, the Tobacco Farmers Association and Fishermen’s Association in Ilocos Sur have thrown their support behind Mendoza.

Mendoza, who holds a doctorate on agricultural extension and two masteral degrees, has been a presidential assistant for North Luzon and deputy presidential adviser on job generation since President Arroyo assumed the presidency.

Mendoza, a close ally of Singson, joined the provincial government in 1992 upon the governor’s invitation until he was appointed as presidential assistant.

If he runs for Congress, Mendoza may face former congresswoman Grace Singson, wife of incumbent Rep. Eric Singson.

Eric, on the other hand, may run for governor, while his son, Candon City Mayor Allen Singson, may seek reelection.