Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District)*
Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) said on Monday, July 14, that Cadiz Mayor Salvador “Bading” Escalante, newly elected Negros Association of Chief Executives (Negros ACE) president, has reaffirmed his openness to the long-standing vision of forming a regional political party.
The idea of a Negros Island Region regional party was first floated by his father Bacolod Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez and is “one that aligns with my continued advocacy for united, progressive leadership across the region,” the Third District representative said.
Benitez also congratulated the newly elected officers of the Negros ACE, which he previously headed.
A new chapter begins for the Negros ACE as we welcome a team of local leaders committed to strengthening collaboration, continuity, and progress across our province, he said .
He said Escalante as the newly elected Negros ACE president brings deep experience and a strong track record of inter-LGU collaboration.
“He previously served as secretary general of Negros ACE and was a vital supporter during my time as president, I am proud to endorse his leadership,” Benitez said.
Benitez also congratulated Victorias City Mayor Abelardo “JunB” Bantug III, the newly elected Negros ACE chairman.
“Mayor JunB has expressed his support for Mayor Bading’s vision and is ready to help carry forward key initiatives and further strengthen unity among our mayors, Benitez said.
The other new Negros ACE officers are:
The other new Negros ACE officers are:
• Secretary General: Pontevedra Mayor Jose Maria Alonso
• Treasurer: San Enrique Mayor Jilson Tubillara
• Auditor: Candoni Mayor Ray Ruiz
• Public Information Officer: Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson
Board of Directors:
• 1st District: Toboso Mayor Richard Jaojoco
• 2nd District: Manapla Mayor Mikaela Escalante
• 3rd District: Victorias City Mayor JunB Bantug
• 4th District: Bago City Mayor Mayette Javellana-Yao
• 5th District: Isabela Mayor Miguel Angelo Yulo
• 6th District: Honoba-an Mayor Daph Reliquias
• Lone District of Bacolod: Mayor Greg Gasataya*
“May this new leadership bring about stronger collaboration, bolder ideas, and continued service for every Negrosanon,” Benitez said.
“Legacy isn’t about being mentioned. It’s about being remembered”, he added.*