By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Silay City Mayor Mark Golez yesterday reiterated his support for Negros Occidental third district Rep. Alfredo Benitez to seek the governorship in 2019.

Golez, who was in Bacolod City to attend Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) turnover ceremonies, said he is still waiting for the congressman’s final decision.

“I hope he runs for governor,” Golez said. “I look forward to his pronouncement soon.”

Benitez was also listed among the possible PDP-Laban senatorial lineup for the 2019 midterm elections.

Golez believes the legislator should seek the governorship first, saying he is “really needed” in the position.

Among other possible gubernatorial candidates including Benitez’ local partymate and incumbent Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, along with 2016 vice gubernatorial candidate and former Negros Occidental fifth district Rep. Jeffrey Ferrer.

Lacson earlier stated, if it came down to a race for governor, the incumbent provincial official said he would negotiate with Benitez, noting he can still serve one more term as vice governor./DGB, WDJ