LP bet for Iloilo Governor

Newcomer favored over long-time member

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The ruling Liberal Party has made a bold move when it set aside one of its oldest allies in Iloilo, former governor Niel Tupas, Sr., in favor of his long-time political rival, incumbent Gov. Arthur Defensor, Sr., who was only sworn in as LP member a few days ago with his son, Rep. Arthur Jr of the 3rd district.

The LP of President Benigno S. Aquino III, announced that it will have Defensor, who was then considered point man of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, as the party’s standard bearer for Iloilo governor in 2013.

The announcement was made by Senator Franklin Drilon, a known ally and friend of Tupas, at the Hotel del Rio in this city yesterday morning.

Defensor, Tupas Sr., and former congressman Oscar Garin Sr. in the meeting declared their alliance for LP in the 2013 elections. Also in attendance were Vice Governor Richard Garin, 1st District Rep. Janette Garin, 5th District Rep. Niel Tupas, Jr., Rep. Defensor Jr. and some mayors and political leaders.

Defensor Sr’s bid meant that Tupas Sr, who earlier wanted to run again as governor, will give way to a new LP member. The elder Tupas said he has never abandoned the LP, and that the party’s decision was painful for him although he respected Pres. Aquino’s decision.

“At first, I have decided to run (for governor) but I gave way because the president asked me and he has his reasons,” said Tupas Sr, who will instead run for a congressional seat of the 4th district to strengthen LP’s presence in the House of Representatives.

Months before the announcement, Defensor Sr. and Tupas Sr. have been brawling over LP’s nomination. Tupas Sr. has the support of Drilon while Defensor Sr. has the nod of DILG Secretary Mar Roxas and the late DILG Sec. Jesse Robredo.

Drilon declared a historic political development in the province where leaders have united for the development of the province and in support of the programs of the Aquino administration. He added that they are not after any political enemy. “We are united for the people for having an opposition is for a healthy democracy, let the people choose,” he said.

Tupas Jr, who was the key man in the Corona impeachment, for his part said the choice of Defensor over his father was a “small sacrifice” for his family. Position did not matter most to them, but on how the family could help the province and the party, he said.

Meanwhile, the LP’s bet for vice governor was not yet announced, as Rep. Oscar Garin declared that his son Richard will give way and not run for reelection next year. The congressman also described the move a sacrifice on their part and it was “voluntary and unconditional” decision to preserve unity in the group.

Drilon also announced that in addition to Tupas Sr. as LP’s congressional bet for the 4th district, the party will field incumbent Rep. Tupas Jr. (for the 5th dist), Rep. Defensor Jr. (3rd dist.) and Pavia town Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta (for the 2nd dist.). The candidate for the 1st district has yet to be known but it will be a Garin, said Drilon.

Defensor Sr., for his part, said the latest political development will be beneficial for the province as they have set aside political differences to work together for the common good. He is also confident that the great majority of the mayors supportive of his administration welcomes the development and that they would also be joining him in the LP. (FREEMAN)