Who will run vs Gonzalez?
Final round of 'unification talks' are underway between and amongst opposition contenders vying for the seat and to unseat Iloilo City Lone District Representative Raul Gonzalez Jr.
With the would-be contenders all from the opposition, The News Today (TNT) gathered that set to be firmed-up is the ultimate candidate or at least, the guidelines on how to choose said bet.
To date, names of noted Ilonggo lawyers Dan Cartagena, Rex Rico, former City Councilors Joshua Alim and Benjie Gengos are flaunted for the post. Another contender is City Councilor Erlinda Liberiaga said to be backed by millionaire Mark Jimenez.
The 'unification talks' aims to reach a gentleman's agreement from all contenders in the hope of coming up with the best bet against the incumbent solon.
To note, several names of congressionables came up days after it was reported that Senator Franklin Drilon no longer intends to run against Gonzalez Jr. It was not immediately clear what prompted the purported Drilon plan to be shelved however talks spread that recent surveys showed Drilon on a poor second to Gonzalez Jr. Further still are the reported solid stance of the city's barangay captains for Gonzalez Jr. with other local leaders shying away from identified Drilon 'lobbyists.'
The result of the 'unification talks' is expected within the next two weeks.