By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

After Abang Lingkod partylist Rep. Stephen Paduano earlier revealed the possibility of running for Bacolod City mayor in next year’s midterm elections, Bacolod City Councilor Ricardo Tan, who previously disclosed intentions for a possible mayoral run, said he “respects” the congressman’s plans.

In an interview yesterday morning, the city councilor said growing interest in the position shows there are number of people frustrated with the administration of incumbent Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia and his Grupo Progreso coalition.

Tan said he hopes to form a “united” opposition, adding, plans to meet with Paduano about 2019 are in the works.

Over the weekend, Paduano revealed he transferred his voter registration from EB Magalona to Bacolod City but admitted he has yet to decide between challenging Leonardia or seek a third term in congress in the next elections; however, he affirmed, if he were to seek local office, it would be mayor.

He also reiterated, if he were to run for mayor, he wanted 2016 congressional candidate and former Bacolod City Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus Sayson as his running mate.

Aside from running for mayor, Tan earlier said he was considering challenging incumbent Bacolod City lone district Rep. Greg Gasataya./DGB, WDJ