By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Benjie Miranda of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental announced his reelection bid, this time with his wife, Divinagracia, as his running mate in the 2025 midterm elections.
During the 27th Charter Day Anniversary of the city last Friday, Miranda confirmed his wife’s candidacy for vice mayor. “The majority of the masses are with us,” he said.
Miranda noted that husband-and-wife tandems have been seen in other localities, and there’s nothing wrong if they do the same.
He said that his wife is qualified to serve, having been an English teacher and the president of the Teacher’s League in Kabankalan City.
“Our tandem would make a difference, as we belong to one party and we sleep in one bed at night, which enables us to resolve problems immediately,” the mayor said.
Miranda expressed his commitment to improving and upgrading services for Kabankalan’s residents and introducing innovations and digitalization, which is the current trend.
He described the upcoming election as a battle between Institution and Innovation.
Former Mayor Isidro Zayco is reportedly making a comeback in the city, with incumbent Vice Mayor Miguel Zayco running in the 2025 elections.
Miranda acknowledged the Zaycos’ contributions to the city’s progress over the past three decades.
“I respect the Zaycos, who have ruled the city for more than three decades and have done their best to make it as progressive as it is today,” he said.
However, Miranda believes it’s time for change in the city. “I am always ready for whatever God’s plans are for me,” said Miranda, who served as barangay captain for 11 years under the previous administration before becoming mayor in the last elections.
“This is a continuous learning process. We can help improve the city,” Miranda added, expressing his openness to seeking advice from the Zaycos.
Meanwhile, Miranda said an additional budget of P855 million is needed to operate the Kabankalan City Airport. He recently met with Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista to discuss the airport’s status and emphasized the need to complete its tower, terminal building, parking, and other facilities.
The city government allocates P10 million annually, with an additional P40 million this year for the perimeter fence.
Miranda also mentioned that the city is not yet ready for the relocation of around 100 families near the airport, but the city government is looking for a relocation area for them.
