CEBU Gov. Hilario Davide III went on stage yesterday with candidates of the Alayon party in Carcar City to endorse their slate including the incumbent mayor Nicepuro Apura.
The action of the Liberal Party Cebu chairman was part of a compromise to ensure votes for standard-bearer Mar Roxas in the 1st district of Cebu.
The LP-Cebu has its own candidate for mayor in Carcar – Raul Alcoseba, incumbent Provincial Board member.
Mayor Apura confirmed that the governor endorse him and Alayon’s slate yesterday. The mayor and Vice Mayor Mario Barcenas are seeking reelection.
“The endorsement is part of the agreement between Alayon and the Liberal Party (LP),” the mayor said.
Alayon mayors dominate the 1st district except for Talisay and San Fernando.
The tradeoff assures votes for the LP presidential ticket of Mar Roxas and running mate Leni Robredo, as well as Davide and running mate Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale in the province.
Under the agreement with the Alayon party of the Gullases, the governor will endorse Alayon candidates in the 1st district.
Apura said Governor Davide agreed that the LP would not campaign against Alayon in Minglanilla and Sibonga towns, Naga City and Carcar City where Alayon has incumbent mayors.
LP will only campaign for their candidates in Talisay City, where Mayor Johnny de los Reyes is seeking reelection.
“The endorsement yesterday is merely ceremonial. It doesn’t really matter that he will not be campaigning for us. We’ve established a personal relationship with the governor. I think that’s what is most important,” said Apura.
Davide attended a mass wedding in Asturias before going to Carcar City in the afternoon. Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale was unable to join him.
Davide issued Alcoseba a certificate of nomination and acceptance (CONA) for the filing of his certificate of candidacy last week. He also issued CONAs to LP challengers in Minglanilla, Naga City, and Sibonga.
LP-Cebu spokesman Orvi Ortega said they are are grateful for Alayon’s support.