LP respects Talisay City members bolting the party

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III said he was saddened by the decision of three original members of Liberal Party in Talisay City to bolt the party.

Although he was not happy about it, Davide said he respects the decision of his former allies- Talisay City Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante and Councilors Danilo Caballero and Aldin Diaz.

“There are certain political realities that we simply cannot ignore, mao man gyod ni mahitabo. They are good friends of mine, staunch allies. They were with me in 2010 and 2013… I texted him (Villarante) this morning. I thanked him for his support,” Davide told reporters yesterday.

The departure of the three former LP members came after the party decided to endorse incumbent Mayor Johnny De los Reyes as standard-bearer in Talisay City, observing the “equity of the incumbent” rule.

Villarante, in a previous interview, said he is open to negotiation with the other political parties like the United Nationalist Alliance of Vice President Jejomar Binay or the National People’s Coalition of Senator Grace Poe.

De los Reyes was appointed as the party chairman in the city for the upcoming 2016 elections.

“Naay mahiubos sa atong mga desisyon, sometimes we have to make very difficult decisions,” Davide said.

The governor, the provincial leader of LP, further said that the local leaders and members of the party will have a series of meetings starting next week.

He said part of the discussions would be on the need to address the issues concerning the party members, especially those allies launching bids for the same position in 2016 elections.

“We will seek advice on how to go about this. I have to solicit advise from senior partymates,” he added.

He earlier said that the Alayon Party’s coalescing with LP is another thing they need to address because its candidates may be running head-on with LP’s bets.

Alayon Party had pledged support to LP’s national and provincial bets.  (FREEMAN)