Presidential candidate and Senator Manny Pacquiao met with Bacolod mayoral bet Alfredo “Albee” Benitez in Iloilo City on Thursday, March 31, and all is set for his arrival in Negros Occidental on Friday, April 1, former Bacolod mayor and representative Monico Puentevella said.
Asked if Pacquiao would endorse Benitez for mayor of Bacolod, Puentevella said just ask him when he arrives.
Benitez is supporting Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for president.
Pacquiao is also scheduled to meet with Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, Silay Mayor Mark Golez and Talisay Mayor Neil Lizares, Puentevella said.
Lacson is supporting Vice President Leni Robredo for president but all candidates who pay a courtesy call are welcome, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz said.
“We will give that welcome courtesy and Negrense warmth to whoever wants to make a courtesy call,” Diaz said.
Pacquiao will arrive by helicopter from Iloilo and land at the Bacolod Silay Airport Friday morning, Puentevella said.
The senator will campaign at public markets in Silay, Talisay and Bacolod and will meet with the pastors of Negros Occidental and other groups, Puentevella added.*