ILOILO – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and Anilao’s Mayor Nathalie Ann Debuque officially filed their certificates of candidacy (COCs) on Monday morning, October 7, at the VIP Lounge, Festive Walk Mall in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.
Defensor is seeking re-election for his third and final term as governor, while Debuque has filed her COC for vice governor. Joining them in the filing was 4th District’s Cong. Ferjenel Biron who is also running for re-election.
Defensor expressed gratitude for the support they received, particularly from mayors in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th districts.
“”This is the most support I’ve ever received during a COC filing in my political career. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, especially the mayors, for their full support,” Defensor said.
He was accompanied by his parents, former governor Arthur Defensor Sr. and Cosette Defensor, during the filing.
The governor highlighted the significance of the mayors’ backing, especially as Debuque is not an incumbent and is a new figure in the provincial political landscape.
“It’s a positive development, especially as we are introducing a non-incumbent candidate for vice governor. This support is crucial for Mayor Lee Ann Debuque,” Defensor added.
He urged the public to get to know Debuque, describing her as an intelligent, dynamic, and hardworking leader who is capable of taking on the responsibilities of vice governor.
Defensor also praised their tandem under the MoRProGRes Iloilo (Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo), his administration’s development framework for the province.
For her part, Debuque admitted she had not initially aspired for the vice gubernatorial post but expressed confidence in her ability to handle the responsibilities
“I am the governor’s choice, but I also want to be your choice,” Debuque said, addressing the Ilonggos.
She committed to an intensive campaign across the province, recognizing that she is new to the provincial level.
“Like Gov. Toto said, I will make every effort to introduce myself to you. I believe you will also find me fit to help our governor achieve his vision for Iloilo province,” Debuque added.
As one of the younger candidates, Debuque said she aims to bring the voice of the youth to the provincial government and partner with Defensor in delivering faster and more efficient services to the people.
At present, Defensor faces no significant opposition for the governorship, and there is a possibility that he may run unopposed.
As of October 7, no other candidate has filed a COC for the position of governor.
Political families such as the Garins, Tupases, and Birons have already declared their support for Defensor.
Debuque’s main opponent for the vice gubernatorial race is Cong. Raul “Boboy” Tupas of the 5th District./PN
