ACTOR Javier Miguel "Javi” Benitez, who is the Metro Third Asenso Victoriahanons’ standard-bearer, has filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) as mayor of Victorias City, Negros Occidental Friday, October 1, 2021.

Benitez’s teammates led by incumbent Councilor Abelardo "Junb" Bantug III, who will run for vice mayor, also filed their respective COCs.

Seven of the incumbent councilors who are seeking reelection under his slate included Virgie Adorio, Audie Malaga, Hermie Millan, Derek Palanca, Dexter Senido, Nity Sta. Ana and Daylen Tornea.

Completing Benitez’s lineup are former city administrator Dino Acuña, former city chief of staff Nonoy de Asis and Barangay 15-A Captain Ulysis Tumimbang.

Benitez’s slate was determined through a party convention participated by leaders of the Asenso Victoriahanons held in July 2021.

Benitez earlier said he chose to run independent of any national political party.

While he is not running under any national political party, his father, former Third District representative Alfredo “Albee” Benitez will run as mayor of the highly urbanized Bacolod City under Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban).

He said his father and family understood his position and that they support each other.

The younger Benitez assured that he will work hard to support his entire lineup and will focus on the challenge and opportunities in serving the people of Victorias.