Bacolod mayor’s reelection still a consideration – spox

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – The spokesperson of Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez dispelled rumors of the latter’s reluctance for reelection.

In a statement to Daily Guardian on Thursday, Atty. Caesar Distrito underscored that Mayor Benitez’s immediate priority is to fulfill his last electoral term’s pledges to Bacolod.

Addressing the city’s urgent issues, such as the water crisis and impending climate fluctuations from El Niño to La Niña, is presently more pressing than his 2025 political strategy, with the certificate of candidacy filing still in October.

Distrito relayed that Mayor Benitez had outlined five potential political paths, including seeking reelection, and his ultimate decision will center on what benefits Bacolod City most.

Apart from re-election, Benitez is said to consider switching posts with Rep. Greg Gasataya and running for congressman, running for senator, accepting a cabinet position, or staying away from politics altogether.

“To say that he is not inclined to seek reelection is not correct,” Distrito clarified, affirming that it remains a primary consideration for Benitez as the serving mayor.

Distrito also addressed the mayor’s recent silence, suggesting it reflects his frustration with the municipal governance’s pace and cooperation level, hindered by bureaucratic obstacles — a sentiment contrasting with Benitez’s background in the more fast-paced private sector.

“Mayor Albee said that the change he advocates involves a change of mindsets. Of doing something beyond what your function requires you. Of being accountable. He still has yet to see them come to fruition at this point in time,” Distrito added, pointing to a gap between the mayor’s vision and current realities.

At a press conference on Monday, when questioned about his reelection intentions, Benitez gave a noncommittal “I don’t know.”

He voiced discontent with governmental red tape, emphasizing the speed at which the private sector operates in contrast to government bureaucracy.