ILOILO City Mayor Jose Espinosa III clarified that his “Pag-ulikid sang Siyudad” program is not part of political campaign for the upcoming 2019 elections.

The program aims to provide free services from the Iloilo City Government. It delivers legal services, dental, medical and physical check-ups and facilities needed by a certain barangay.

Some individuals perceived that his program is a part of his political campaign since Espinosa declared last June 18 that he will run again for mayor in next year’s election.

Espinosa, in an interview with the press on September 24, denied the claims and said the service of the city government should be present and continuous.

“They will ask if this is a part of my political campaign to the service (provided) as a city government official and city government. Even if there is politics or none, your service to the public should be present,” Espinosa said.

He added that there are still numerous citizens who were unable to follow-up or process their government related IDs and documents especially the birth certificate.

The chief executive said that others who are incapable of proceeding at the Iloilo City Hall may not be able to follow-up their documents, the reason why Espinosa sought to continue the program.

“It will continue so long as we will not be violating any election laws and election prohibitions,” Espinosa said. (Carolyn Jane Abello)