Ex-lawmaker’s daughter goes active in 5th district

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY—Bernardina “Dina” Arroyo-Tantoco, the second daughter of the late Rep. Ignacio Arroyo of the 5th district, Negros Occidental, is frequently visiting the area, leading to speculation about her intentions for the 2025 midterm elections.

Tantoco, who was seen in Binalbagan, Isabela, and Moises Padilla on Wednesday, is actively engaging with the community through her foundation, NextGen.

According to Barangay Captain Cherrie Hope Belarga of Suay, Himamaylan City, Tantoco distributed electric fans, drinking bottles, and various supplies including food, fruits, and snacks for students.

Belarga mentioned that Tantoco was joined by Mayor Irene Montilla and Vice Mayor Miguel Montilla in Isabela, and by Mayor Ella Celestina D. Garcia and her husband Felix Matias Segundo Yulo in Moises Padilla.

Mayor Alejandro Mirasol of Binalbagan also went with Tantoco as she met with local teachers.

While Belarga could neither confirm nor deny if Tantoco plans to run for office, she emphasized that Tantoco’s involvement in the district is primarily due to her foundation’s work in supporting educators.

Mayor Yulo also commented on Tantoco’s political aspirations, noting that she has not declared any intentions to run.

However, Negros Occidental Board Member Anton Occeño suggested that the 5th district might see a new contender in next year’s elections, hinting at a potential challenge to incumbent Rep. Emilio Bernardino Yulo by Tantoco.

Occeño noted Tantoco’s active involvement in local governance and her possible residency change to Brgy. Robles in La Castellana, which is near a hacienda owned by her husband’s family.

As of now, Tantoco has not publicly confirmed or denied these rumors.