Pamintuan surprised on Lazatin’s decision

ANGELES CITY -- Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan expressed surprise Thursday over reports that First District Representative Carmelo Lazatin will run for mayor in this city in 2013 election.

"I am surprised, just like everybody else in Angeles City and Pampanga," Pamintuan said in a text message sent to the media Wednesday night.

Rumors of Lazatin's plans spread early this week while Pamintuan was in the United States facilitating donations for the city's health programs through World Medical Relief Inc.

Both Pamintuan and his supporters in Angeles City were surprised by the lawmaker's move.

“He is my ally and I will campaign for him and like what everybody in my city knows. I was never what he pictured me. I am a loyal friend and ally,” Pamintuan said.

Lazatin’s camp said the sudden pronouncement came after the alleged withdrawal of support of Pamintuan to the lawmaker’s previous re-election bid.

Irish Calaguas, Lazatin’s senior adviser for political affairs, said Pamintuan is reportedly supporting Vice Governor Joseller Guiao, who recently aired his congressional bid in the said district.

“We don’t want to be ‘double-crossed’ again,” Calaguas said.

Pamintuan reportedly supported former Mabalacat Mayor Catalino Domingo in the 1995 polls instead of Lazatin, who is a supposed ally, according to Calaguas.

In 1998, Pamintuan again shifted support to Councilor Max Sangil instead of Lazatin, Calaguas added.

"Never in my mind, as my past political history would bare me out, never will I leave my friends and ally in any political contest," Pamintuan told Sun.Star Pampanga.

Pamintuan said he will remain a friend and supporter of Congressman Lazatin. (Ian Ocampo Flora and Rey Navales)