Defensor-Garin tandem up for Iloilo?
It is never too early to talk politics. Or so it seems as the holiday break was marked by talks of a Capitol comeback for one of Iloilo's highly-respected public official.
While at it, a "dream tandem" too on what has been floated as "almost done deal" for yet another respected and recognized 'power politician.'
The purported comeback is for former Iloilo Governor and now Third District Congressman Arthur Defensor Sr., House Majority Floor Leader of the 14th Congress. The purported tandem is with First District Board Member Richard Garin, son of power couple, Philippine Coconut Authority Administrator Oscar and San Joaquin Mayor Ninfa Garin.
Defensor Sr.'s 'declaration' was heard over Bombo Radyo as he expressed "interest" in going back to the Capitol. He said foremost of his consideration in seriously eyeing his former post was the heightened clamor of the people for change in the Iloilo Provincial Government.
Defensor Sr. also said that for change to happen here, an end for "pinamilya-type" of governance must be stopped.
And with his "interest" made public, Defensor Sr. named Garin as possible partner and vice-gubernatorial bet.
Garin when reached by The News Today (TNT) was upfront with his answer.
"It is very good news for the people of Iloilo that Congressman Defensor declared his intent to run for governor. It would mean that there is going to be democracy in as far as choices for governor is concerned in Iloilo come election time," Garin began. "So may pilian na ang mga Ilonggo. As for the tandem, yes, there had been offers and talks though not directly from and with Congressman Defensor nor the other group. Duwa gahambal sa akon – grupo ni Governor Niel Tupas kag grupo ni Defensor. So it could be Defensor- Garin, Tupas- Garin or even Garin-Defensor, Garin- Tupas. Nothing is clear nor definite yet at this time."
What is clear though, Garin pointed out, was the fact that both camps are eyeing someone from the First District of Iloilo and from the Garin family.
"This is enough reason for me to be happy that what is being recognized here is the effort of the Garins, the unity of the First District. I see this as reflective of the appreciation of the unity and strength of the First District," Garin said.
Pressed further for preference if and when the offer is made, he replied, "I am a party man so where it is best, dira ako. I will go for one who has the better vision, better programs and policies, and one who can lead the people to the right direction.... but then things are fluid so just as it could be three presidentiables in 2010, there could also be three candidates for governors. And so far all are qualified candidates. Pareho nga may kaayohan kag diperensya, kaalam, abilidad, connections, political and otherwise. But for me performance will be my ultimate gauge and this I will do by asking the people to take a look of the candidates' respective towns and system of governance and management. For example look at Guimbal. We took extra care of our town because we believe this is reflective of the kind of leadership we have here. So let us take a look at Barotac Viejo and Mina just as you can all see Guimbal."
The Tupases hail from Barotac Viejo while Defensor is from Mina, Iloilo.