MAPANDAN -- Mapandan Mayor Jose Ferdinand Calimlim Jr. has early on declared his intention to run for vice governor. The wait now is if he will be chosen by Governor Amado Espino Jr.

On Wednesday, Espino graced the joint 40th birthday celebration of the mayor and the inauguration of the town’s new hotel/resort-like municipal hall.

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Before proceeding to the event, the governor dropped by and checked the Community Hospital here, which is run and administered by the Provincial Government.

Just like the other 13 provincial, district, and community hospitals in the province, the Mapandan Community Hospital underwent rehabilitation and construction work on the first year of governance of Espino.

Some officials who graced the occasion were Board Member Angel Baniqued, Pangasinan Police Provincial Director Percival Barba, Calasiao Mayor Roy Macanlalay and his son Councilor Mark Roy Macanlalay, Sison Mayor Kimi Sison (who will be running as congressman at the fifth district), Municipal and City Council members from other towns, officials from the Pangasinan I Schools Division and from other government offices.

Also present were about 2,500 local residents, including the teachers and school officials who rendered songs for the birthday celebrant.

With the mayor were her lawyer-wife and their two daughters.

Third district congressman Rachel Arenas was represented by her mother socialite and philanthropist Rosemarie “Baby” Arenas.

Mapandan town is within the third district of Pangasinan.

Asked whether the governor’s attendance manifest their possible team-up, Calimlim said: “Wala pang official na usapan pa. Until we get the final nod, doon lang natin mako-confirm. One thing definite is that we are partymates and we will be partymates.”

Both are under Lakas-Kampi and the Nationalist People’s Coalition.

From being a fifth class town when he assumed as mayor more than eight years ago, Mapandan is now a third class municipality.

“The progress and development of Mapandan speaks much of the cooperation and unity of the elected officials and the townspeople. I guess this is also a reflection of my own personality, kung ano yong nakikita niyo na Mapandan ngayon, that is Ferdie Calimlim. And hopefully, madala natin sa ibang liga ang energy na ito,” the mayor said.

“Today, November 11, is a very special day for us all as it marks the realization of a desire, of dream that the municipality has always wanted. This new edifice symbolizes our unity and love for our town,” he added.

Calimlin said his townmates, especially those from the far-flung areas, should not feel awkward or hesitant to enter the building.

“Everybody, from all walks of life or regardless of their social status, is welcome here. We want our people to experience and feel the progress the town has attained,” he stated.

Ask why the non-conventional style of a municipal hall, Calimlim said: “Minsan lang tayo magpatayo ng munisipyo. This is an edifice of pride and unity of Mapandan. Gusto nating magpatayo ng kakaiba na conducive for work and good governance and for the people to feel professionalism and good public service. Your work environment speaks so much of how you will conduct your work.” (LCMY/Sunnex)