Guv says UNA pushes for status quo in 2013

GOVERNOR Alfredo Marañon Jr. revealed on Monday that most of the members and officials of the United Negros Alliance (UNA) push for a status quo for the top two posts in the province for the 2013 elections.

He was referring to the “Marañon for governor and Genaro Alvarez for vice-governor” tandem, with both of them seeking a second term in their respective positions.

Marañon said they will announce UNA’s official decision in due time, as the deadline draws near for the filing of the Certificate of Candidacy on October 1 to 5.

Considering that this is a democratic country, the governor said he also expects to have opponents in the 2013 elections.

"We cannot avoid those opponents, as we are in a democracy. But majority of the members of UNA push for a status quo," he reiterated.

However, the governor’s statement runs contrary to reports that UNA founder and chairman emeritus former Ambassador Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr., with the endorsements of some mayors and congressmen, is more inclined to endorse Alvarez for the top post in the province.

In fact, Alvarez is reportedly conducting personal talks with some mayors and congressmen regarding his plans to run for governor.

Marañon, on the other hand, had already declared that he is seeking reelection in 2013, as he said that 19 mayors are supporting his reelection bid.

Because of the reported rift among UNA officials, the party’s supposed convention scheduled this month did not push through.