Running for governor an option, says Defensor son

ILOILO – Cong. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. (3rd District) may run for governor in the 2019 elections.

“But that is only one option,” clarified the son of Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr.

The young Defensor is now on his third and final consecutive term as congressman. The law bars him from seeking a fourth consecutive term.

He, however, did not say that his other options were.

Between now and 2019, many things can still happen, he stressed.

The congressman’s father, now 75 years old, recently announced he would be leaving politics when his third and final consecutive term as governor ends by 2019.

Running for governor is one of his logical options, said Congressman Defensor, but he stressed everything remains fluid for now.

“First, we will have Charter Change…wala ta kabalo kon klase nga reorganization matabo sa probinsya sang Iloilo,” he said.

The congressman, a lawyer by profession, said he may choose to return to private practice.

He was elected congressman of the 3rd District in 2010 replacing his father who was elected governor. He was reelected in 2013 and 2016.

The elder Defensor announced last month he would be retiring in 2019. He dismissed rumors he was running for mayor of Iloilo City.

“Who’s making that story up? Running for mayor of Iloilo City never crossed my mind,” said Defensor who served as congressman of the 3rd District for three consecutive terms (2001-2004, 2004-2007, 2007-2010).

“Mapahuway na ako ‘ya sa pulitika,” the governor stressed.

Defensor also served as governor of Iloilo from 1992 to 2001./PN

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here