Perennial poll bet denies contracting COVID-19

By Felipe V. Celino 

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — “It’s fake news!”

This was the reaction of a perennial election candidate to reports that he succumbed to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Yes, Domingo “Domeng” Belonio of Brgy. 9 here is very much alive.

Belonio said he was shocked with rumors that he passed away last June 30. He called the yarn as politically motivated meant to mislead the people about his health.

He admitted that he was confined for a week at Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital (RMPH) for diabetes, but he was negative for COVID-19.

Belonio is a political personality of sorts as he always runs for top positions in Capiz and Roxas City every election.

In the 2019 elections, Belonio ran for mayor of Roxas City against seven candidates.

He also ran for governor in the province of Capiz during the 2016 elections and congressman in the First District of Capiz in 2013.

He lost in all races.

It was learned that Belonio is interested in running for Roxas City mayor again in the 2022 polls.

Meanwhile, Belonio urged persons behind the rumor to stop spreading false information.

“I’m still alive and kicking and ready to ‘rumble’ in the coming elections,” he said.

Belonio is into the lending money business.