EDITORIAL - Political opportunists
Has the exodus started? Even before the administration of mayor-elect Edgardo Labella has formally taken over Cebu City Hall, those in the opposing political camp have already sent feelers supporting his government.
Labella himself said several Bando Osmeña Pundok Kauswagan members are committed to support his incoming administration. He, however, did not specify if these BOPK officials would join his party, the Barug-PDP Laban, or just support his programs and projects.
Outgoing Councilor Jerry Guardo is the first BOPK member to officially shift allegiances. In a press conference Thursday, Guardo declared his support for the new administration, saying “mayor-elect Edgardo Labella is calling for unity and reconciliation, I feel that now is the right time to heal broken wounds and unite for the good of Cebu City.”
Guardo has shifted allegiances before. He was originally part of Team Rama during the administration of Michael Rama. Then he jumped ship and joined the BOPK after Tomas Osmeña was elected mayor.
Now, taking advantage of Labella’s call for his political opponents to support his administration, the north district councilor wasted no time in declaring his cooperation with the incoming government.
Although he did not win in the May 13 elections, Guardo may snatch a seat in the City Council once Councilor Alvin Arcilla’s disqualification becomes final, a development that will certainly affect the balance in the council, where BOPK currently holds the majority.
After Guardo, more BOPK members are expected to pledge their support to the Labella administration. Does this mean we are seeing the beginning of the end of the once-mighty local political organization?
Only in the Philippines is the changing of allegiance a common thing after elections. The one with power usually ends up having the most allies. Of course, it is personal interest that created these political opportunists.
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