VICTORIAS City Mayor Javier Miguel "Javi" Benitez said he is not gunning for the highest position in the province in the 2025 elections.
This was also echoed by his father, Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo "Albee" Benitez, who stressed that the neophyte local chief executive will not run against Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson.
The younger Benitez said he is focused on planning and implementing programs and projects for Victorias City.
"If people feel that what we're doing here can be replicated, then it's a testament to our performance so far. That's all there is to it, and we still have so much to do here," he added.
"I'm glad that our work here is being appreciated," Mayor Javi further said.
Lacson is eyeing to finish his last term as governor in the 2025 elections.
The possibility of the younger Benitez running against the Lacson was raised after he was seen going around Negros Occidental attending charter events and festivals of the different local government units.
The Bacolod mayor said that Javi's presence at these events is part of his job as president of the Association of Chief Executives (ACE).
The elder Benitez denied that he was planning to unseat the governor, as he laughed off the rumors.
"Gov. Bong is a very, very good friend and ally," he pointed out.
As to those who are planning to challenge Lacson, "good luck to them," he said.
"As far as I see, Negros province has been unified, and that unity is very, very strong," the Bacolod mayor said.*