CANDABA -- Representative Juan Pablo "Rimpy" Bondoc has welcomed the entry of his "most serious challenger" in the congressional race in the fourth district, outgoing Apalit Mayor Oscar "Jun" Tetangco, Jr.

Bondoc, whose family has served the fourth congressional district of the province for more than 30 years, is about to face a fight dubbed as the "most serious political contest in the province" with Tetangco on 2016 polls.

"Winewelcome natin siya, syempre demokrasya ito. Kahit sino pa ang humabol, inaanyayahan natin sila na makilahok sa pulitika dahil ito ang daan patungo sa serbisyong publiko," Bondoc said.

Bondoc asserted that he is confident that his constituents in the district will use a groundwork in voting based on the leaders' integrity, their achievements and their track record in public service.

The incumbent representative urged Tetangco for "clean and healthy" election since they both have the same intention, to provide public service. Bondoc and Tetangco will have a head-to-head race for the fourth district.

Asked what more service will he offer to the people, Bondoc said focus on the construction of flood mitigation-infrastructures since fourth district is known as the catch basin of Pampanga and other neighboring provinces.

He cited the P2-billion project on the massive opening of the third river coming from Mexico, Pampanga to Manila Bay to further reduce flooding. The Pampanga Delta dike, Arneda dike and tail dike will also be bolstered while major roads and thoroughfares will be continuously be upgraded for the development of the district.

Tetangco, whose candidacy is supported by businessman and fellow Apaliteño Manny V. Pangilinan and the Villars, also vowed to address the flooding problem of the district.

Part of his platform is to push the revival of the Pampanga River Control System (PRCS).