Former Rep. Herminio “Meniong” Teves (Neg.Or., 3rd District), tagged as the political kingpin in Negros Oriental, has officially confirmed he has severed political ties with incumbent Gov. Emilio Macias II in what was described as an end to the merry days forged by the two camps back in 2007.

Teves said he is withdrawing his support for Macias and will be campaigning for Vice Gov. Jose “Petit” Baldado in the 2010 elections.

He added that Macias had chosen Mayor German Saraña Jr. as his vice gubernatorial candidate purposely to get votes from Bayawan City, and not for the mayor to win.

This development may have prompted Saraña to run as independent in the vice gubernatorial race, he said.

Teves said the governor made the decision without consulting incumbent Rep. George Arnaiz (Neg. Or., 2nd District) who is also supporting Board Member Mariant Escaño Villegas as vice governor, and not Saraña.

Teves, fondly called “Tatay Meniong” said he will be supporting Arnaiz in the second district even if the solon has committed to back Villegas for vice governor.*JG

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