CEBU, Philippines — An opposition group was established yesterday to challenge the ruling One Cebu Party led by Governor Gwen Garcia.
The group, Team Liberate Cebu, is headed by Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, who was recently dismissed and permanently disqualified from holding any public office by the Office of the Ombudsman.
Team Liberate Cebu also serves as a support group for the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) party of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Various personalities who recently filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COC) from different parts of Cebu Province and even from Bohol gathered at Casino Español to officially announce their alliance under the PDP banner.
Among the attendees were gubernatorial aspirant Pamela Bariquatro and Lapu-Lapu City mayoralty aspirant and former mayor Paz Radaza.
Rama, who is the PDP Vice President for the Visayas, stated that he is authorized to issue Certificates of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA) for Cebu and Bohol.
He also mentioned that one of the reasons for forming the opposition group was Governor Garcia's alleged interference in the affairs of Cebu City.
“Nakadungog man kos ubang kandidato nga nganong diri man ta sigeg tan-aw nga perti man diayng dakoa og problema diha sa probinsiya,” said Rama.
He also expressed his hope that the Duranos from the 5th District would join their team.
Astra Pimentel-Naik, the PDP Executive Director and Membership Committee Chairperson, said that this convergence demonstrates the unwavering commitment of those who continue to amplify their voices.
“We are really happy nga dili lang usa kabuok ang mutingog diri sa Cebu, daghan kaayo. Maisog, mubarug, ug musyagit para sa katungod sa katawhan sa Cebu,” said Naik during her speech.
She also announced that the party’s chairman, former President Rodrigo Duterte, has pledged to visit provinces nationwide to campaign for PDP candidates.
Despite the Ombudsman’s decision in Rama’s nepotism case, Naik affirmed that they remain “strong.” — /DGI (FREEMAN)