Bacolod lawmaker dodges 2025 mayoralty bid questions

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Representative Greg Gasataya of Bacolod City’s Lone District avoided questions on whether he plans to run for mayor in the 2025 midterm elections, amid reports that he and his political ally, incumbent Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez, may switch positions.

“Maybe in due time, decisions will be announced,” Gasataya told reporters Sunday during the “Share Maih Meal” program led by his wife, Maita, at the Arao Relocation Site in Barangay Vista Alegre.

“As of the moment, wala pa gid kami final nga schedule,” said Gasataya, who left the Grupo Progreso party in 2020 and joined Benitez’s Asenso Bacolod party. Gasataya accused his former partymates of betrayal for allegedly supporting another congressional candidate during the last elections.

Both Gasataya and Benitez won their respective races by overwhelming margins and secured a majority of the seats in the city council.

When asked about his relationship with Mayor Benitez, Gasataya said, “It’s still the same, wala sang pagbag-o, the mutual respect is there.”

He emphasized that decisions regarding 2025 plans would be made after consultations and following what he described as “political chaos over the past few days.”

This refers to a controversial convention held last week, during which two candidates were selected to fill council seats for the 2025 elections.

Allegations of vote-buying during the event led Mayor Benitez to order an investigation, the results of which have yet to be disclosed.

“Wala man kami gaaway nga duha,” Gasataya added, downplaying rumors of a rift between him and Benitez. “What is important is the continuity of the programs and projects for Bacolod City.”

Gasataya said that his priority for 2025 is to ensure that services for the people of Bacolod continue.

Meanwhile, Gasataya shared that 10,000 recipients from various barangays have benefited from his wife’s “Share Maih Meal” feeding program.

In addition to meals, vitamins were also distributed to children.

Joining Gasataya and his wife at the feeding program were councilors Thaddy Sayson, Al Victor Espino, Pao Sy, and Mansilingan Barangay Captain Franz Gasataya, as well as their daughter and actress Ara Mina.