The May 2019 elections are fast approaching and it seems, unlike in previous years, prospective candidates are silent. Typically, a year ahead of the polls, their presence is very apparent in barangays. Perhaps there are a lot of things brewing and they are not ready to come out in the open; maybe they learned a lesson from former Vice President Jejomar Binay – too early to declare, too easy to be destroyed.

Politics is a very volatile exercise; an ally today may not be your friend tomorrow. Loyalty ends when self-interest begins and it’s all done in the name of “public service?”

According to a source, incumbent Negros Occidental Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson will likely run for governor with 2016 vice gubernatorial candidate and former Negros Occidental fifth district Rep. Jeffrey Ferrer as his running mate. Looking forward to seeing them join forces for the good of the province as they are both seasoned government officials who worked their way from the bottom; constituents can judge their character based on their experience.

They have both shown to be hands-on leaders who are always available when needed, unlike others who are operated by remote control; those types of officials are often outside their jurisdiction and replying on reports from their staff.

Lacking a personal touch is not a good quality for a leader; it’s all money and no relationship.

Incumbent Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr. has also been relatively silent. Is his local political coalition planning to field a separate candidate as his successor?

Meanwhile, in Bacolod City, there is a lot of speculation on who will challenge incumbent Mayor Evelio Leonardia. Will the rumors of City Councilor Ricardo Tan and Abang Lingkod partylist Rep. Stephen Paduano push through?/WDJ