Monday, January 08, 2007 Nalzaro: Cebu’s politics By Bobby Nalzaro Saksi
THE campaign period has yet to start but already Cebu’s politics is boiling. A few known personalities have thrown their hat in into the political arena. Well it’s good that they are doing that. At least the electorate will know what posts these personalities are gunning for.
Joining a political battle, especially if you’re a newcomer, is not a walk in the park. It can’t be done through overnight preparations.
A serious and credible candidate has to build his political machinery well ahead of the elections. I said a “serious and credible” candidate because there are those who join elections for the heck and “fund” of it.
Political machinery includes a well-organized, mass-based support group, campaign managers and staff, public relations group and campaign materials. These all entail lots of money, not to mention funds needed to buy votes. It’s sad to note that in Philippine politics, a great number of the electorate sell their votes to the highest buyer.
Here in the city, so far only Jonathan Guardo, former chairman of the Cebu City Sports Commission, has announced his congressional bid in the south district to contest Rep. Tony Cuenco. Well, Guardo has to triple his efforts to match the political power and clout of Cuenco.
Guardo probably wasn’t born yet when Tony entered politics. Nanggungis na ni si Tony sa politika. But nothing is impossible. There’s a Cebuano saying for cockfight afficionados, “ug makabuno diay.”
Political pundits forecast a boring Cebu City mayoralty and gubernatorial races. The opposition is still scouting for candidates to pit against Tomas Osmeña and Gwendolyn Garcia. They say the two candidates are sure winners.
Former governor Pablo Garcia and his son Pablo John have also announced their intention to run for the congressional seat of the province’s second and third district, respectively. Father and son are highly qualified considering their legal background. Also, the former governor has no clear opponent, while Pablo John will face off against Board Member Estrella Yapha, whose family has dominated the district.
Hotly contested areas will probably include Lapu-Lapu City because it will be a fight between incumbent Mayor Rodolfo “Boy” Radaza and Vice Mayor Norma Patalinjug. In Mandaue, it’s between Mayor Teddy Ouano’s son Jonkie and Rep. Nerissa-Soon Ruiz. In Talisay City, it’s between incumbent Mayor Soc Fernandez and challenger Cebu City Councilor Gabby Leyson. Abangan.
