Ahong wins in Pajo

CEBU, Philippines - A former city councilor of Lapu-Lapu who faced Mayor Paz Radaza in the mayoral contest in 2010 and lost was elected barangay captain in barangay Pajo in Monday’s barangay elections.

Junard Ahong Chan was proclaimed winner over the wife of incumbent city Councilor Leo Mercado.

Mercado is the barangay captain of Pajo and President of the Association of Barangay Council’s (ABC), but relinquished the post after he was elected as member of the city council of Lapu-Lapu City.

Chan reportedly joined the camp of Mayor Paz Radaza during the May 2013 elections.

But Mayor Radaza in previous statements said she and her husband former congressman Arturo “Boy” Radaza would fully support Mercado’s wife, Grace.

During the campaign, Chan promised to introduce changes in barangay Pajo.

Chan promised free clearances for job applicants, free certificates of residency for those who wish to study in Pajo Elementary School, free indigent certificates, and free barangay clearances for senior citizens.

He also promised free day care centers and livelihood for the urban poor.

Chan also promised to prioritize Pajo residents in the use of the barangay basketball gym.

He also promised to put up a drainage system in every sitio in the barangay.

Six councilors who will work with Chan are identified with his rival.

They are Councilors Lyndon Guba, Gary Omolon, Lyndel Bullos, Alexander San Pablo, Manuel Rogado, and Gloria Bomediano.

The seventh, Medardo Dela Serna, is the only one identified with Chan’s ticket. (FREEMAN)