IF THERE is one candidate qualified and willing to move up the political leader is Vice Mayor Christian C. Halili, a young visionary who carries a surname which is considered a legend in Mabalacat politics. After all, he is the son of once long-serving former Mayor Wilfredo "Fred" Halili, a well-loved and respected local chief executive.
Christian is approachable and accommodating, especially to the city's marginalized sector. His crowd-gathering power is no longer suspect, as he spews out one-liners and anecdotes not unlike his late father who is known for his efficiency in public speaking, specifically in the vernacular.
He is a formidable opponent or ally, depending on which side you're
on. Results of previous elections proved this: if he is not the topnotcher, he is near the top post.
It is not surprising if the power brokers or punsters will line up support for him as he is considered to be very bankable.
This is of course if-a very big if- Mayor Boking, the political kingpin of Mabalacat will graciously pave the way for him. But Christian is still young (born September 3, 1979) and he can still run for the second top post, meaning the vice mayorship.
As far as Mayor Boking is concerned, however, he confidently believes he has still two terms left and will stick to his battle plan, come hell or high water, election protests to contest his eligibility notwithstanding.
From now till the 2016 elections, there will be more and new registrants. Definitely. the good mayor will factor this in as with the influential religious bloc which has supported him through the years.
On the same plane, there might be new entries in the mayoralty derby but no one has yet approximated the voting strength and winnability of either Mayor Boking or Vice Mayor Christian. One tandem may be feasible and, of course, unbeaten Mayor Boking and Vice Mayor Christian. It is a formidable team. Well, anything can still happen in 2016 and the political scene and palette may be different then.
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It's the start of camping out, domestic and foreign travels and other outing activities for different offices.
Peso Mabalacat will participate in the Capability Enhancement and Team Building at Dawal Beach, Barangay Uacon, Candelaria Zambales from April 23-25. Attending this event are this writer, Virgie Miranda, Alma Pontillas, and Jay Perena. This activity is coordinated by Pampanga Peso Managers Association headed by Luningning Vergara and Dole Provincial Field Office.