After running unopposed for Negros Occidental fifth district representative, congresswoman-elect Maria Lourdes Arroyo-Lesaca vowed to “excite” her district.

“I want to excite the people of the fifth district through improving health services, education, and infrastructure.” she said after she was formally proclaimed by the Provincial Board of Canvassers yesterday at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol social hall. “It is now time to go to work and deliver for the people.”

Arroyo-Lesaca is the sister of former Negros Occidental fifth district Rep. Ignacio ‘Iggy’ Arroyo, Jr. She succeeded Rep. Alejandro Mirasol, who was in his third and final term, and was recently elected Binalbagan mayor.

Arroyo served from 2004 until his passing in 2012, when he was replaced by Mirasol.

“I am grateful for this rare opportunity to run for our district’s congressional seat without any opposing candidate,” Arroyo-Lesaca added.

Both former Negros Occidental Provincial Board Member Alain Gatuslao and former Himamaylan City Mayor Agustin Bascon were considering running for the seat but later withdrew.

Meanwhile, she also touched upon the issue of political families.

“This is a free country,” she stated. “The results of the election [are] the voice of the people.”/DGB, WDJ