JVR crosses path with rival Gullas

CEBU, Philippines - For the first time after the 2013 polls, noted political rivals Talisay City Mayor Johnny De los Reyes and former Cebu first district representative Eduardo "Eddiegul" Gullas met in one venue yesterday morning.

This was during the induction of new set of Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines-Talisay City Chapter officers held at Garces Royal Garden in Barangay San Isidro.

This was the first time that De los Reyes and Gullas met each other after the former congressman lost in the 2013 mayoralty elections by a slim number of votes against the neophyte mayor.

Sources said the oath-taking ceremony was already long overdue since they have been elected to the position last July.

According to the source, who refused to be named, BCLP president Bernard Odilao wanted either Governor Hilario Davide III or Representative Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas, the grandson for Eddiegul, to administer the oath but other officers allegedly protested saying they would like to have De los Reyes to lead the honors.

"Wala man gyud nagkasinabot kay divided man ang officers kung si kinsa ang ilang ipa-administer sa oath. Ang uban gusto ni Davide or ni Congressman Samsam pero naa pud mi-suggest nga ang mayor lang aron makakuha og mehoras gikan kaniya kay siya man ang mayor," the source said.

In the end, it was Associate Justice Gabriel Ingles who led the oath of the officers.

During the event, the former congressman arrived early at the venue where he was a keynote speaker.

In the middle of his speech, De los Reyes arrived.

Gullas, who acknowledged the mayor's presence, suggested to the present administration to continue his program, especially on the establishment of public elementary schools.

De los Reyes, during his turn to give his message to the barangay councilors, also acknowledged Gullas.

Both Gullas and De los Reyes did not talk about politics in their speeches but one in calling for unity among the officials.

Right after the event, Gullas and De los Reyes were seen shaking hands before the mayor left the place while the former congressman stayed, chatting with the barangay leaders. — Garry B. Lao (FREEMAN)