Broadcast unions support Belmonte

MANILA, Philippines — Reelectionist Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has received the support of workers from the broadcast industry, including those affected by the non-renewal of franchise of media giant ABS-CBN.

The National Alliance of Broadcast Unions (NABU), the umbrella organization of different broadcast workers’ unions in the country, has formally endorsed Belmonte.

“NABU backs only those who will promote press freedom. We will only support someone we know will fight for and has the heart to listen to the concerns of the workers,” the group said. “Because of this, NABU fully supports Mayor Joy Belmonte’s reelection bid.”

Belmonte has actively supported the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN, which is located in the city.

She is running against Anakalusugan party-list Rep. Michael Defensor, who was among the 70 lawmakers who voted against the broadcast giant’s franchise renewal.

Also backing Belmonte’s reelection bid is the Kapamilya party-list, which seeks to represent workers in various industries, including the media.

The group echoed NABU’s call for the public not to support the bids for public office of those who voted against the ABS-CBN franchise.

Belmonte expressed gratitude to the broadcast industry workers for their support.

“I promise to continue fighting for the rights and welfare of workers in the city,” she said.

‘Vargas best choice for Congress’

Meanwhile, Belmonte has affirmed her support for fifth district Councilor Patrick Michael “PM” Vargas, who is running for congressman.

PM is seeking to replace his brother Rep. Alfred Vargas, who is ending his nine-year stint as a member of the House of Representatives and is now running for councilor.

The Vargas brothers are running under the ticket of Belmonte.

PM initially headed the infrastructure committee of the local government unit of Quezon City. He was tasked to lead the city’s livelihood and health programs during the pandemic.

Belmonte endorsed PM during a thanksgiving concert attended by 17,167 district five residents on Tuesday.

“Ang congressman ko ay lalaki!” Belmonte told the crowd.

PM in turn proclaimed: “Ang mayor ko ay babae!,” illiciting applause from the crowd.

He said the partnership with Belmonte has been dynamic and the leadership she has brought to the table has been "sterling," adding that there has been no corruption in the handling of city finances for the various projects in Quezon City.

PM thanked the mayor for her endorsement.

He vowed to improve the lives of city residents, provide job opportunities and strengthen medical benefits and educational scholarships.

PM is the leading candidate for congressman in the city's fifth district.