ILOILO – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has already chosen his running mate for the upcoming midterm elections on May 9, 2025.
However, the identity of his vice gubernatorial candidate remains undisclosed, as per the request of the selected individual.
Defensor explained that his running mate asked for a temporary delay in the announcement, given that there is still nearly a week before the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) begins.
“We have already chosen our running mate, and we have had discussions. But our candidate requested that we withhold the announcement for now. Just a little more patience – it’s only a week away,” Defensor said.
When asked about the criteria he used in selecting his running mate, Defensor said the candidate must be willing to work in tandem with his administration, similar to his collaboration with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Additionally, the chosen individual must be committed to supporting the President’s vision for “Bagong Pilipinas” and the MoRProGRes (Movement for Resurgent Progress and Growth) initiatives in Iloilo.
Defensor emphasized the importance of aligning with President Marcos’ administration, stating that a lack of support could impact the programs and projects for the province.
“Part of the consideration is the willingness to partner with the current administration, just as I am partnering with the President of the Republic of the Philippines. Our running mate will be working towards Bagong Pilipinas and MoRProGRes Iloilo,” Defensor said in an interview with Aksyon Radyo Iloilo on Tuesday, Sept. 24.
He also clarified that his choice of running mate is not connected to the 2028 elections, explaining that he approaches elections “one at a time” and that the 2028 race is still far off.
Defensor also revealed that the selection of his running mate was made with the consensus of his political party and allies in the province.
Among the potential candidates being speculated as Defensor’s running mate are:
* USWAG Ilonggo party-list’s Cong. James “Jojo” Ang
* Miag-ao’s Mayor Richard Garin
* 2nd District’s Cong. Michael Gorriceta
* 4th District’s Cong. Ferjenel Biron
* 5th District’s Cong. Raul Tupas
* 4th District’s Provincial Board Member Rolando Distura
* 4th District’s Provincial Board Member Domingo Oso
The filing of COCs will be from October 1 to October 8, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Defensor said he respects the decisions of other politicians who may also run for vice governor, acknowledging that it is their right to do so.
He also did not dismiss the possibility of facing opposition for the gubernatorial seat in the May 2025 elections./PN
