Local political groups Love Negros and the United Negros Alliance (UNegA) should convene to discuss whether they will field a unified candidate for governor of Negros Occidental in 2028, Deputy House Speaker and Bacolod Rep. Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez said Friday, Sept. 11.
“I don’t think there should be any individual or one person who should decide what will happen. It is a collective decision and consensus of all members of both groups,” Benitez said.
Benitez noted that while discussions between the two groups are likely ongoing, he is open to initiating talks himself or asking Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson to call a meeting.
The statement comes amid political speculation surrounding potential gubernatorial candidates, including his son, 3rd District Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez of Love Negros, and 2nd District Rep. Alfredo Marañon III of UNegA.
Addressing his son’s potential bid, the deputy speaker emphasized that the democratic process benefits from open competition.
“Anybody has the right to run. The more candidates, the better it is for voters to make an informed decision on whom they wish to support,” Benitez said, adding that he will give his full support to his son should he decide to enter the race.
However, Benitez stressed that final decisions are a long way off, given that the filing of certificates of candidacy is still more than a year away.
He added that governance and pressing public issues should remain the priority over early political maneuvering.
Turning to local Bacolod politics, Benitez dismissed rumors of a rift, stating he does not expect Vice Mayor Kalaw Puentevella to run for mayor in 2028. He said his political partnership with Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya remains strong and will continue in 2028.*
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