IN A show of unity and brotherhood, former three-term mayor Oscar Tetangco, Jr. and incumbent Mayor Peter Nucom of Apalit town on Thursday, October 11, filed together their respective certificates of candidacy (COCs) before the Commission on Elections.
Tetangco, who served Apalit town as chief executive from 2007 to 2016, filed his COC for mayor as he eyes a comeback after three years of political hiatus.
Nucom, meanwhile, is set to reclaim his post as presiding officer of the Sangguniang Bayan after his one-term stint as mayor of Apalit.
The duo were joined by their candidates for councilor under the Kapanalig at Kambilan ning Memalen Pampanga (Kambilan) party namely re-electionists Edmon “Tuk” Simon, Kenneth Nunag, Atoy Castro, Elias “Jun-jun” Mendoza, Jr., and Jed Dalusung, and Sam Mangsal, Marcel Santos and Angie Sabordo.
Brotherhood over politics
In a very rare moment in politics, an incumbent mayor humbled himself and gave way to a returning mayor even with two more terms to spare in the maximum allowed by the Constitution.
This coming May 2019 local elections, this will be the exact scenario between Tetangco and Nucom, who have been together in their political battles for over a decade now.
Tetangco described the scenario as a manifestation of word of honor and genuine friendship beyond politics and power.
“Peter and I will never be separated even on matters concerning politics. When such moments come, we always compromise and make sure that our brotherhood will prevail,” Tetangco said.
Tetangco, being at the receiving end, also expressed his admiration for the humility shown by Nucom for the welfare of their common supporters and the rest of Apaliteños.
“It is not every day that we can find such genuine friendship as this, and a true leader and this was all showcased by Peter today and I and the whole Apalit town can never be more grateful for that,” he said.
Swaying like a rice plant
Being a farmer by occupation, Nucom likened himself to a rice plant which he described as having a straight and strong stem when planted and while growing up, but starts to sway with the wind once it becomes fruitful.
He stressed that his decision to step back is for their followers and Apaliteños who have witnessed and supported the decisions of Tetangco and his vision to provide development for Apalit throughout the years.
“Position is just a position. True leadership is through action and that is my belief. Mayor Jun and I have known each other for so long and I do not want to abandon that for the mere sake of clinging to power. Besides, this is not about power but the welfare of Apaliteños,” Nucom stressed.
Nucom also noted that with his three-year stint in the executive level, the learnings he gained will be used in crafting legislative measures that will become instrumental in boosting the economy and uplifting the lives of Apaliteños.