Defensor-Garin tandem for top Capitol posts firmed up
And it is finally “official.” At least for now on the tandem for governor and vice-governor of Third District Representative Arthur Defensor Sr. and First District Board Member Oscar “Richard” Garin Jr.
Albeit hyped-up for months now, the confirmation was made Monday and first made public by Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator Oscar Garin Sr.
As such, it’s ‘final’ – the Defensor-Garin tandem now “all-systems go” with Representative Defensor himself acknowledging the report.
Reached for confirmation by Aksyon Radyo’s Junjun Sornito, Defensor said talks have been firmed up in a meeting held in Manila. Present then were Administrator Garin, Fourth District Representative Ferjinel Biron and First District Representative Janette Loreto Garin.
What actually first transpired, Defensor shared, was Garin Sr.’s decision to forego of his gubernatorial bid and instead have his son run for vice governor.
Pressed for the rest of the line-up and party slate, Defensor said “great majority” or some “80%” in final decision has been reached. No details though were disclosed however Defensor clarified that remaining unsure slots was not because of lack of candidates but on the dilemma as to who would be the rightful choice.
Final word will have to be sealed after consultation with respective district leaders particularly congressional Representatives. Decisions, Defensor stressed, will be up to said party leaders.
In the matter of board members though, incumbent First District Board Member Mac Napulan is certain to be with the Defensor-Garin tandem. In the Second District, it would be incumbent Board Member Rodolfo “Boy” Cabado. In the Third District, certain is incumbent Board Member Mar Malones while no clear bets yet on the Fourth and Fifth districts.
Defensor also said that he has already secured the commitment of Second District Representative Judy Jalbuena Syjuco alongside majority of the mayors here.
Asked on his priority with his Capitol comeback, Defensor said foremost in his desire is to bring back the people’s trust to Capitol governance. It will not be about Defensor in power, he stressed while adding that he will definitely work for transparency in the affairs of the Iloilo Provincial Government.
As for manner of campaign, Defensor said issues on graft and corruption will be one valid issue he will tackle.
“The people have a right to know,” he concluded.
Meantime, official pronouncement of Board Member Garin is being awaited by members of the Capitol press. Garin Jr. since the “declaration” has yet to be heard as local radio stations were bombarded by text messages drumming up the Defensor-Garin tandem.