Binay invites Cebu City mayor to join UNA

MANILA -- Mayor Michael Rama has an option to join the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) after deserting the ruling Liberal Party on Sunday on reports that he failed to clinch the blessing of Malacañang.

Opening the door for Rama is Vice President Jejomar Binay, who said in a statement Monday that he personally asked Rama to be the UNA standard bearer in the city for next year’s midterm elections.

“Mayor Rama represents competent, caring and transparent governance. Under his leadership, the people of Cebu have seen continued growth and share in the fruits of progress through various economic and social services. We are honored to have him as our official candidate for Mayor of Cebu City,” Binay said.

Rama left the LP after reports said the administration party already backed the candidacy of Representative Tomas Osmeña (Cebu City, south district), who is seeking to regain his old post as mayor. Rama and Osmeña are former political allies.

“My ties with the LP will already cease to exist and I would not be any more connecting with the said party,” he added.

The mayor did not provide specific details on what prompted him to make such a decision but pointed out that the media have been reporting about it.

He apparently referred to his letter to Aquino as well as to LP president and Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, asking that he and his group be given a certificate of nomination for the 2013 elections.

Rama has not received any response from the LP headquarters in Manila.

Despite leaving the LP, Rama said he has no ill-feelings toward the party and that he is still supportive of the reform agenda of President Benigno Aquino III. (Virgil Lopez/Sunnex)