BACOLOD City – The merger between two political groups in Negros Occidental does not mean the Commission on Elections would no longer monitor “election hotspots.”
Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Jessie Suarez said they are closely monitoring 10 localities with intense political rivalries.
Topping the list is Himamaylan City in the 5th District, according to Suarez.
Incumbent Vice Mayor Carmencita Bascon of Love Negros will be up against United Negros Alliance’s (UNEGA) Raymund Tongson in the mayoralty race.
In San Carlos City in the 1st District, incumbent Vice Mayor Renato Gustilo of Love Negros will be running against former vice mayor Edgardo Quisumbing for the mayor’s position.
Meanwhile, it will be a three-cornered mayoralty fight in Silay City. Reelectionist Mayor Mark Golez was opposed by incumbent Vice Mayor Joedith Gallego and former mayor Jose “Oti” Montelibano.
Comelec will also keep an eye at the mayoralty race in E.B. Magalona where two best friends are opposing each other.
Reelectionist Mayor Marvin Malacon will run against 3rd District Board member David Albert Lacson.
In Hinigaran town, newcomer Paulo Yulo will be up against incumbent Mayor Nadie Arceo.
Toboso incumbent mayor Richard Jaojoco is also seeking another term with UNEGA party mate Evilio Valencia as his opponent.
Vice Mayor Ella Yulo of Moises Padilla – who is currently under detention in relation to her illegal possession of firearms charges – is seeking to land the mayor’s position against incumbent Mayor Atty. Magdaleno Peña.
Rep. Alejandro “Bebot” Mirasol of the 5th District will run for mayor in Binalbagan against reelectionist Mayor Manuel Aranda.
In Isabela, incumbent mayor Joselito Malabor will be challenged by Dr. Irene Montilla, widow of the town’s former mayor Enrique Montilla.
In La Castellana, Vice Mayor Chad Peria will run against incumbent Mayor Rhumyla Mangilimutan.
Suarez said he is set to meet with police and military officials to discuss security preparations for the forthcoming election period.
Comelec will release the official list of candidates for the May 13, 2019 midterm elections after it reviews the certificates of candidacy./PN
