Amid the reported exodus of local officials in Negros Occidental to the Liberal Party, Mayor David Albert Lacson, president of the Association of Chief Executives and the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Negros Occidental chapter, yesterday said he is staying with the Nationalist People’s Coalition.

“I will stick to the NPC,” Lacson stressed.

This is also the stand of Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr., who chairs the United Negros Alliance, a dominant local political group in Negros Occidental.

Lacson justified his stay with NPC, by saying it had helped a lot, while he served as the mayor of EB Magalona for several years now.

He said it is understandable that local officials in Negros Occidental, who are Lakas-NUCD members, are affiliating with what they feel is a stronger political party, such as the Liberal Party.

Rep. Alfredo Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd district) had said earlier that about 12 mayors aside from several vice-mayors and councilors in Negros Occidental are joining the LP.

Asked about the move of his cousin, Board Member Patrick Lacson, to the Partido ng Masang Pilipino, the mayor said “it is his own opinion” on what political party he will affiliate with, which he feels could extend help to the 3rd district.”

Lacson said the NPC remains a neutral party, as it can go with any of the dominant national political parties.

Asked if he will support Benitez against his uncle, former Rep. Jose Carlos Lacson, who may run for the 3rd congressional district seat in the May 2013 elections, replied “Our local party is UNA, so we will stick with the local party”.

The LP recruits in Negros Occidental will take their oaths at the LP convention rites on May 5 at the Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay City, with President Benigno Aquino III among those invited to attend.

Lacson, who confirmed his intention to seek re-election as mayor in the May 2013 elections, said he hopes there will be a coalition of parties among the LP and the NPC.

He also confirmed his unwavering support for Gov. Marañon, who may also seek re-election.

UNA is also supporting the congressional bid of Binalbagan Mayor Alejandro Mirasol, who is said to be joining the LP, for congressman of the fifth district in a special election set June 2.*GPB

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