By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

According to Negros Occidental third district Rep. Alfredo Benitez, Negros Occidental Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson is the leading candidate to represent Love Negros ahead of proposed unity talks with rival local political coalition, the United Negros Alliance (UNegA).

He explained unity talks could pave the way for a possible unified ticket in the upcoming 2019 midterm elections.

UNegA is represented by Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr. and former Negros Occidental fifth district Rep. Jeffrey Ferrer.

Meanwhile, UNegA secretary-general, Provincial Board Member Salvador Escalante, Jr., also confirmed the said talks, although they have yet to set the date.

Ferrer is reportedly planning to run for governor in the upcoming polls, while Lacson earlier stated he does not mind seeking a third term as vice governor.

However, Lacson and Benitez have both been floated as potential gubernatorial candidates.

The congressman, however, has yet to make an official announcement on 2019 political plans./DGB, WDJ