Who will former Cebu governor Emilio Mario ‘Lito’ Osmeña Jr. choose for a running mate for his gubernatorial bid in next year’s elections?
During yesterday’s 888 News Forum, the 76-year-old Osmeña said he made a list of prospective partners from suggestions of friends in politics but hasn’t made a final choice yet.
He said he was considering a member of the Garcia clan, Mandaue City Councilor Lollipop Ouano-Dizon, Rep. Benhur Salimbangon of Cebu’s 4th district, San Remigio Mayor Mariano Martinez and Talisay City Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante.
Also listed are Rep. Ace Durano of Cebu’s 5th district, Provincial Board (PB) member Peter John Calderon and Samboan Mayor Raymund Joseph Calderon.
Sought for comment, Dizon who is considering running for Mandaue city mayor, said she was flattered that Osmeña considered her.
“I thank him for the offer. For now, I cannot make specific comments. It is not yet time to decide. The election is still a year away and I am more inclined to run for a local position,” said the daughter of former Mandaue mayor Thadeo Ouano.
Mayor Martinez said he too was happy about being considered , “but I’m not finished with what I started here.” He said he would run for reelection in San Remigio next year.
Samboan Mayor Calderon said he can’t run with Osmeña since he is allied with incumbent Gov. Hilario Davide III.
Earlier, Rep. Salimbangon declined Osmeña’s offer since he still has to serve his last term in congress.
Disappointed
Osmeña said he was 100 percent sure that he would run against Davide because he believes the governor has not done much for Cebu. He said he also felt disappointed with Davide for snubbing his offers to help through phone calls and letters.
The former governor who served the province from 1988 to 1992, said he has something to reveal against Davide before next year’s election.
“I have doubled my reasons because of certain things I have information about. I am waiting for the evidence and if it does come, I would say it would be a heinous crime.”
“I am not at liberty to divulge it because I want empirical data to prove the allegations but if proven, it’s not only Davide who’s the culprit but the fact that he would have known all these machinations all around Malacañang,” Osmeña said.