Congressman Olivarez running for mayor

MANILA, Philippines — Parañaque Rep. Eric Olivarez has announced his bid to succeed his elder brother, Mayor Edwin Olivarez, who is on his last term as the city’s chief executive.

Edwin is eyeing a congressional seat in the city’s first district under the PDP-Laban faction of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi in next year’s elections.

The Olivarez brothers have been allies of President Duterte since 2016.

Their father, Pablo Olivarez, served as city mayor from 1982 to 1985.

Eric’s running mate will be Guada Golez, sister of incumbent Vice Mayor Rico Golez, who is reportedly running for councilor in the second district.

“The Olivarez-Golez alliance, which started in the 2013 elections, will remain intact,” according to the mayor.

Eric, chairman of the House committee on government enterprises and privatization, served as councilor for six years before he was elected congressman in 2013.

Edwin is reportedly running unopposed as first district representative.

District 2 Rep. Gus Tambunting, also an ally and partymate of the Olivarez brothers, will seek reelection.