Does Mayor Quisumbing’s family grudge affect his political career?

Mandaue City Mayor Luigi Quisumbing’s statement in response to his grandfather, Norberto Quisumbing Jr.’s press release is carefully calculated and well written.

As a background, the older Quisumbing said that he now puts his vote and support on Jonas Cortes as mayor of Mandaue City, instead of his grandson, Luigi, because he believes that the latter no longer deserves to be mayor. He substantiated his statement by narrating damaging accusations against his used to be “favorite” grandson. How sad!  

In his response, Luigi pointed out at least 4 important points, to wit: 1) that he is respectful and grateful to his grandfather; 2) that as incumbent mayor he governs the city fairly and justly applying the law to all; 3) that he accused Congressman Jonas Cortes of corruption; and 4) that he leaves the Mandauehanons to decide on his performance.

On the first point I appreciate Luigi for respecting and acknowledging his grandfather’s contribution to his political career. To speak otherwise could have self destroyed his person as Filipinos have high regards to their forefathers. 

Luigi’s calculated response would make him appear as a respectful grandson and that his being grateful would subtly counter his grandfather’s statement that he never expressed gratitude to him.  At any rate, if he expressed it for the first time, then at least he says so than never. 

Second, if indeed his decision to put the interest of Mandaue City over and above everyone and not exempting a favored few even the member of his family, is laudable.  He is correct in saying no one is above the law. 

So, his decision to close the business of his relative is admirable if indeed such business brings destructions to the people of Mandaue, especially the youth.  He made the right decision after consulting the police and PDEA on the matter. 

Third, Luigi diverted the issue against his political rival, Jonas Cortes. He counter attacked Cortes who is the direct beneficiary of his grandfather’s statement by accusing him of committing the crime of plunder against the people of Mandaue.

Although Luigi’s accusation remains as it is in the absence of proof. Cortes still enjoys the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise by the court of justice. 

Fourth, Luigi gives the freedom to the people of Mandaue to decide on his performance. Such decision will be known through a democratic process in the upcoming election. 

Basically, Luigi was able to answer his grandfather’s statement point-by-point. Whether or not the people of Manadeu are convinced on his explanations, is a totally different story.

On the other hand, the Mandaue voters are known for their being clannish. Both Luigi and Jonas have many supporters. But the fact that the Quisumbing family in this election is not united, it goes without saying that this is a big problem in the part of Luigi. 

Note that the one who expressed his sentiments of not supporting Luigi is not an ordinary supporter, but the patriarch of the Quisumbing family and the founder of Norkis Group of companies. He is known as Luigi’s financier in his political career.

So, does Luigi’s internal family problem affect his desire to be a public servant? Will it affect the decision of the Manaduehanons? The answer will be known on May 13.