Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said the choice of the Asenso Bacolod candidates for 2025 will be a collective party decision.
The choices made by the whole group will be supported by all, he said.
“It’s not just about me, it’s not just about the other candidates, it’s about the group, it’s about the party moving forward,” Benitez said.
“It has to be a collective decision moving forward, this is not just one position, these are several positions that are intertwined in ensuring proper governance” for the good of the people of Bacolod, he said.
“I we do not unite behind our candidates, how do we expect the people to also follow us,” he said.
Benitez, when asked if he will seek reelection, said as of now he still has five options for 2025. “Let’s see, the filing (of certificates of candidacy) will be in October yet,” he said.
The five options for Benitez are to seek re-election, run for congressman or senator, accept a Cabinet position or to stay away from politics, Caesar Distrito, the mayor’s spokesman, said earlier.
Rep. Stephen Paduano, (Abang Lingkod Partylist), an ally of Benitez, on Wednesday told reporters that it is clear that Benitez will run for reelection.
“That is my understanding as of now but of course you have to ask him. I cannot speak for and in behalf of Mayor Albee,” he said.
Paduano said he will support Benitez for mayor in 2025.
His commitment is to support Benitez, he has not made any commitment for the vice mayor and congressional bet of Bacolod, Paduano said.
He wants to support incumbent, qualified candidates with good track records, Paduano said.
Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran fits that criteria for congressman, Paduano added.*