Roxas Political Caucus Pushes Through Despite Permit Dispute

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – The political caucus of Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) “Team Totoo” pushed through on Tuesday evening, April 22, despite opposition from the punong barangay of Milibili.

Punong Barangay Annabelle Roxas attempted to halt the event led by former governor Antonio Del Rosario by asking organizers for a mayor’s permit.

The group failed to present the permit, claiming it was not necessary for the use of government facilities.

Roxas insisted that a mayor’s permit is a requirement to use the barangay’s covered gym.

A video of the confrontation went viral on social media, showing Roxas requesting the permit reportedly issued by Mayor Ronnie Dadivas.

However, lawyer-candidates present at the event intervened and explained that a permit was no longer required.

Atty. Powell Del Rosario cited advisories from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which direct village officials to treat all political groups fairly in the use of public facilities.

Antonio Del Rosario is running for mayor of Roxas City, with Powell as his running mate for vice mayor, both under the PFP banner.

The caucus proceeded, allowing all PFP candidates, led by Pinuno Party-list Representative Howard Guintu, to present their platforms to attendees.

Guintu is running for congressman in Capiz’s 1st District, challenging Paolo Roxas of the One Capiz group.