Magpale to seek re-election

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale will seek re-election in next year’s midterm elections.

Magpale told reporters yesterday they have actually already picked a running mate for Governor Hilario Davide, but sudden changes prompted her to change her mind.

She, however, refused to disclose what it is but said it is “valid” enough for her to reconsider.

“The reason nga certain kaayo ko nga I will not reconsider anymore kay there was already a replacement, but then something turned up nga dili na sad to madayon… akong gi-consider kay valid kaayo ang reason,” Magpale said.

“Duna na gyud unta mi i-announce nga ma-tandem ni Gov pero wala madayon so ang akong party, balik na sad karon… maong karon, sige mi’g meeting,” Magpale said.

It was reportedly Danao City Mayor Ramonito Durano, the chairman of Magpale’s group, the Barug Along sa Kauswagan ug Demoskrasya (BAKUD), who asked that she reconsider.

Magpale, 76, said earlier she would already want to retire from politics but “my loyalty to my party and to the district” prevailed in the end.

Magpale has served two terms as vice governor.

“Actually, tulo na baya gyud ko nga term, pero wala man diay gi-count ang una kay I took  over from Greg so I still have one term, pero like I told you, age has caught up… 76 years old na ta, so I already announced nga I will be retiring na,” Magpale said.

It was in 2012 when she took over as vice governor upon the death of Gregorio Sanchez. A year later, she was elected formally to the post.

Davide said of Magpale’s latest decision: “That’s great news for the province.”  — JMO (FREEMAN)