By Mariela Angella Oladive
As of October 4, a total of 150 candidates have filed their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) for municipal and provincial positions in Iloilo province, according to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
The filing breakdown shows that 37 candidates submitted their COCs on the first day, 28 on the second, and 85 on the third.
On the fourth day, only one provincial-level candidate filed: incumbent 3rd District Congressman Lorenz “Nonoy” Defensor, who is seeking re-election for his final term in the House of Representatives.
Defensor, accompanied by his parents—former Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. and Mrs. Cosette Defensor—filed his COC at the COMELEC center in Festive Walk Mall, Mandurriao district, on Thursday morning.
In an interview, Defensor expressed gratitude to his constituents.
“I am truly thankful for the unwavering support of the people of the 3rd District. With one final term ahead, I will continue to work hard for our district and pursue legislation that benefits the entire country,” he said.
Defensor outlined his legislative priorities, including the passage of significant national laws and amendments to the country’s criminal code.
Locally, he aims to continue key district projects, such as developing the Maasin Watershed Ecopark, improving the Capiz-Aklan-Antique road, and upgrading educational facilities.
Joining Defensor in the upcoming election are Board Member Jason Gonzales and Mayor Mark Palabrica, who are scheduled to file their COCs on Monday, October 7.
Also set to file are his brother, Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., and his running mate for vice governor, Anilao Mayor Lee Ann Debuque, both of whom he fully supports.
As the political season heats up, Defensor urged voters to refrain from selling their votes and to elect leaders who are not corrupt and who can bring positive change to their lives.
So far, no challengers have emerged for the 3rd District seat, leaving Defensor’s candidacy unopposed.
COMELEC will continue to receive COCs until the official filing period ends on October 8.
