By Nanette Guadalquiver
BACOLOD CITY – Defeated mayoral candidates in various cities in Negros Occidental conceded defeat and expressed cooperation to the winners in a show of sportsmanship following the May 12 midterm elections.
La Carlota City Mayor Rex Jalando-on, who lost to former councilor Jose Luis Jalandoni, said Friday he “humbly accepts the outcome of the election. That’s part of the process we all believe in and respect. Our love for La Carlota doesn’t begin or end with an election. My love for La Carlota and my desire to see it flourish remain as strong as ever,” he said in a statement.
In neighboring Bago City, Vice Mayor Ramon Torres, whose bid to return as mayor was foiled by Councilor Marina Javellana-Yao, urged residents to continue working together and move forward as one.
“As I pass the baton to the Go Bago Team and the newly elected officials, I fervently hope and pray that the city continues with its growth and prosperity,” he said. Torres’ son, Fourth District Board Member Martin Torres, will take over his post.
In this highly urbanized city, Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran, who was defeated by Lone District Rep. Greg Gasataya in the mayoral race, congratulated his rival.
“Democracy is bigger than any elections. Therefore, I urge my team and supporters to respect the will of the people and work toward a better Bacolod with the newly elected officials,” he said.
Binalbagan town Mayor Alejandro Mirasol, who lost to former mayor Emmanuel Aranda in his bid for a third term, extended his congratulations to the returning mayor.
“I respect the will of the people and I hope that the good Lord will give him strength and the integrity to serve,” he said. Mirasol also thanked his supporters for the trust they have placed in him for the past six years.
In Kabankalan City, Vice Mayor Miguel Zayco, who failed in his bid for a second term, conceded defeat to Divina Miranda, wife of reelected Mayor Benjie Miranda.
“She was chosen by the people, and may the Lord bless her with wisdom, strength, and integrity to serve our city. I pray that in all her decisions, she will be guided by the goodness and interest of the people,” Zayco said in a statement.
In the Fourth District, former Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Lea Delfinado congratulated Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer in his successful return to the House of Representatives.
“I wish you well as you take on the responsibility of serving the people of our beloved district,” she said. (PNA)