Payumo quits BCDA post to run for Congress seat

BALANGA CITY, Philippines  – Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) chairman Felicito Payumo resigned his post on Friday and filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for congressman in the first district of Bataan.

Payumo substituted for former Bataan board member Edwin Enrile. He will run against Rep. Herminia Roman, wife of former deputy finance minister Antonino Roman.

Payumo decided to run for Congress after he was reportedly piqued when negotiations to form an administration ticket excluded former governor Leonardo Roman and former board member Jojo Payumo.

“The Garcias have been invading our own territory by allowing Gila Garcia, a daughter of Gov. (Enrique) Garcia, to run against Jojo Payumo, who is running for mayor of Dinalupihan,” said Dinalupihan Mayor Joel Payumo, Jojo’s older brother.

Meanwhile, Joel filed his COC yesterday for governor of Bataan. He will substitute for Pablo Roman Jr., the son of the late Bataan congressman Pablo Roman.

Joel will run against Rep. Abet Garcia, a son of the governor.