Some S. Leyte officials shift alliance to UNA

CEBU, Philippines – Some Southern Leyte officials shifted their alliance to the United Nationalist Alliance of Vice President Jejomar Binay from the ruling Liberal Party.

Southern Leyte Governor Sheffered Tan, Vice Governor Albert Esclamado, Representative Rico Rentuza and Board Member Mike Maamo declared their support for Binay and their shift to the latter's political party.

These officials were joined by other officials who are either incumbent or seeking for an elective post in the upcoming local and national elections.

JV Bautista, UNA secretary-general, said the declaration is the opening salvo to what he described as a series of public announcements where major candidates from different provinces in different parts of the country will be announcing their alliance with UNA and openly endorsing the candidacy of Binay.

"It is significant to hold the first opening salvo in Cebu City because we are considering this as a stronghold," said Bautista in a press conference.

Bautista said UNA has “taken the fight even at the doorstep of our primary adversary” as based on Pulse Asia survey, Binay is leading in the Visayas.

In the following days, Bautista said they will also be making public announcements in Baguio, Tacloban, Manila, among others.

Tan said they shifted to UNA because they believed the party's leadership to govern the nation while Rentuza said it's their honor and privilege to show to the nation that they are a force to reckon with.

"We will do our best. Rest assured that we will deliver the votes for Vice President Binay," Rentuza said.

Maamo said Binay is the most qualified to run for president.

Suspended Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, who is the regional chairman of UNA in Central Visayas, said LP's presidential candidate Mar Roxas will be beaten terribly in Cebu City while Binay will win in Cebu City in flying colors.

"Only Binay can reconcile, unite and heal this nation," Rama said.

Meanwhile, Bautista said UNA's grand proclamation rally is scheduled on February 9, although the venue is still a subject of the party’s deliberations. He said Cavite, Mandaluyong, Laguna and Cebu are among the contenders.  (FREEMAN)