A manifesto of support was signed by 51 barangay captains and 55 Sangguniang Kabataan chairmen in Bacolod City expressing their trust and confidence in the leadership of Mayor Evelio Leonardia, and urging him to continue serving the people of the city by running for congressman.

The manifesto said that, considering the wealth of experience and track record that Leonardia has achieved, it would be for the best interest of the city if he is given the opportunity to serve in another position of higher responsibility, referring to the position of congressman.

It said that, under the leadership of Leonardia, Bacolod has achieved unprecedented economic growth and development, and was catapulted to become one of the premier cities of the country.

The manifesto added that during his term, the city not only grew by leaps and bounds, but also earned the respect and admiration of credible and prestigious institutions.

Only 10 barangay captains and six SK chairmen out of the 61 barangays in Bacolod did not sign the manifesto dated August 14, 2012.

Secretary to the Mayor Moises de la Cruz yesterday said the manifesto was an initiative of Councilor Mona Dia Jardin, president of the Association of Barangay Captains

He said Jardin furnished a copy of the manifest to the Nationalist People’s Coalition headquarters to inform them of what is happening in Bacolod.

Jardin said they believe in the leadership of the mayor and the barangay captains want him to continue in public service, so they signed the manifesto.

She also said that, before they signed it, she made sure that they had read the document so they will do so on their own free will.

Asked for comment, Leonardia said he is very happy with this development, and that he appreciates greatly the gesture of the two groups in signing the manifesto.

He said it comes at a time when he and his partymates are about to make their announcement regarding their political plans for 2013.

“I find it very timely and relevant. This is like testing the waters and this is a very good and for us in making decisions,” he said.

Meanwhile it is publicly known that Leonardia wants to run for Congress and challenge incumbent Bacolod Rep. Anthony Golez, Jr. for the election in May 2013.

The barangays captains who did not sign come from Barangays Sum-ag, Tangub, Punta-Taytay, Pahanocoy, 13, 15, 18, 24, 29 and 30.

The SK chairmen who did not sign came from Barangays 5, 11, 13, 28, 35 and Villamonte.*CGS

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