Dadivas, del Rosario Face Off in Roxas City

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Incumbent Mayor Ronnie Dadivas faces a challenge from his uncle, former mayor Antonio del Rosario, in next year’s mayoral race.

Del Rosario filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) on October 5 under the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP). Dadivas, running under the One Capiz coalition, submitted his COC on the last day of filing, Tuesday afternoon, October 8. He was accompanied by his running mate, incumbent Vice Mayor Teresa Almalbis, and 10 candidates for the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

Dadivas, who is seeking his final term, is married to Joanne del Rosario, the niece of the former mayor.

Before filing their COCs at Robinsons Place-Roxas, the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) designated venue, Dadivas and his team attended a mass at the Roxas City Metropolitan Cathedral, followed by a short program at the Dinggoy Roxas Civic Center. They were joined by their families, supporters, and One Capiz coalition officials.

Del Rosario, born on April 13, 1946, was previously a member of the Liberal Party. He served as governor of Capiz from 2016 to 2019 and represented the 1st District of Capiz from 2007 to 2016. He also held three terms as mayor of Roxas City from 1998 to 2007.

Recently, Del Rosario was appointed provincial chairman of the PFP in Capiz. His running mate for vice mayor is his nephew, former city councilor Powell del Rosario.

Before becoming mayor, Dadivas served as Sangguniang Panlungsod secretary and city councilor. He later became vice mayor and eventually mayor of Roxas City. He is the son of former 1st District of Capiz congressman Rodriguez Dadivas.