By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed elation over the Benitezes’ support for his re-election bid.
“It is very reassuring to know that the Benitez family, through Mayor Javi, reaffirmed once again their support for my re-election,” the governor said over the weekend.
Lacson added, “Their trust and confidence, coming from well-respected colleagues in public service, validate the hard work and unifying initiatives that the present administration has done for the province.”
“This support is an affirmation for me to continue serving our province and our people with resolute dedication and accountability,” he noted.
Earlier, Victorias City Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez announced that their family will support Lacson’s re-election bid in the 2025 elections.
This development comes amid reports that former Victorias City Mayor Francis Frederick “Wantan” Palanca, a relative, has been considered by the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino to challenge Lacson in the upcoming gubernatorial race.
Palanca is the cousin of the late Betty Bantug Benitez, the mother of 3rd District Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez and Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Albee Benitez.
When asked if Palanca will run against Lacson next year, Mayor Javi Benitez stated, “I don’t know what he is thinking. He has his own mind.”
Lacson, however, remains confident and ready to face any opponent in the upcoming elections. “I cannot choose my opponent,” he said.
It can be recalled that after PDP Laban announced the possible fielding of Palanca in the 2025 gubernatorial race following his recent oath-taking as a member, nine councilors of Victorias City resigned from the party.
Even his son, Councilor Derek Palanca, has assured his support for Lacson.
To date, the former Victorias City mayor has not confirmed whether he will accept PDP’s endorsement as their gubernatorial candidate for Negros Occidental.
Meanwhile, the Love Negros and United Negros Alliance (UNegA) coalition have expressed full support for Lacson, who will be seeking his third and final term as governor of Negros Occidental.
