After the Asenso for Better Bacolod-Magbinuligay Kita para sa Kauswagan coalition earlier revealed former Bacolod City Councilor Jocelle Batapa-Sigue as their candidate for mayor, local radio personality Ray Carmona has since thrown his hat into the ring as an independent, making the race for Bacolod City mayor a three-way race with incumbent Mayor Evelio Leonardia also seeking reelection.

The mayor said he is “unfazed,” especially after his Grupo Progreso coalition received an endorsement from Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, who earlier declared his neutrality with regard to provincial races in Negros Occidental.

Leonardia added, his confidence in a 15-0 sweep is “boosted.”

“Pound for pound, our group has the integrity, track record, and teamwork,” the mayor insisted.

Earlier this week, Batapa-Sigue said she wants to help the city overcome recurring concerns and issues that have been poorly addressed.

“For me, it is not only a question of whether I can win or not – it is more about whether Bacolod can win or not,” she said./DGB, WDJ