Outgoing DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)
MANILA – Big names in the local political scene formalized their bid for senatorial seats on Monday, the second to the last day of the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) for next year's midterm elections.
Outgoing Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos Jr. filed his COC at The Manila Hotel Tent City. He was accompanied by his parents, incumbent Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin Abalos Sr., and his wife, Vice Mayor Carmelita Abalos.
Benhur, who is included in the Marcos administration's Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, said he was confident that his track record in public service would land him a seat in the Upper Chamber.
He previously served as Mandaluyong mayor, congressman and chairperson of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
If elected, the younger Abalos would push for reducing the cost of electricity, and job creation, among others.
Meanwhile, former senator Gregorio Honasan II is seeking a comeback to complete an "unfinished business".
“I represent a newly formed party Reform PH. Reforms are not only said or thought of. These should be implemented. We are fighting for economic reform, land reforms, electoral reforms, social reforms ... the reason why I am excited to ask for another mandate from the Filipino people,” Honasan said in an interview.
Asked what he meant by "unfinished business", the former senator said he refers to land use, national security, freedom of information, and national and food security.
"What we look for through legislative intervention, harmony in family…state inclusive growth, security of the nation," he added.
Former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, is likewise seeking to be elected as a member of the Upper House.
If given the chance to serve in the Senate, the independent candidate aims to introduce transformative solutions to two critical sectors: transportation and financial inclusion. He plans to modernize the country's transport industry by investing billions of pesos to manufacture thousands upon thousands of electric jeepneys and distribute them to drivers throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
“All jeepneys will be built using state-of-the-art Korean technology - this entails that each vehicle will be spacious, air-conditioned, environmentally friendly, as well as gas and fuel-free, all while maintaining the visual aspects of the look and feel of the traditional Pinoy jeepney that's been a quintessential part of Filipino culture for decades,” he said in a statement.
Singson served as Ilocos Sur governor for 33 years - from 1972 until 1986, then from 1992 until 2001, and again from 2004 to 2007. His last stint as provincial chief executive was from 2010 until 2013.
Reelectionist Ramon Revilla Jr., also filed his COC, accompanied by his wife Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado, and their daughter.
Former Philippine Marines col. Ariel Querubin, former senator Bam Aquino, former Defense secretary Norberto Gonzales also joined the list of senatorial aspirants for next year’s polls, after filing their respective COCs.
Former senator Manny Pacquiao, also a part of the administration's senatorial slate, also filed his candidacy. He was accompanied by his wife Jinkee. (PNA)
