BACOLOD CITY – In a significant shift in local politics:In a significant shift in local politics, Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez and Lone District Representative Greg Gasataya announced their decision to switch roles in the upcoming May 2025 elections. The announcement was made during a press conference at the SMX Convention Center after both officials filed their certificates of candidacy.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Benitez will run for the position of congressman, a role he previously held from 2010 to 2019 for the Third District of Negros Occidental, while Rep. Gasataya will vie for the mayoral seat under the banner of Team Asenso Bacolod. The switch comes as both officials are nearing the end of their three-term limits in their current positions. Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran is also entering the race for mayor, setting up a contest against Gasataya.
During the press conference, Gasataya expressed his gratitude and outlined the team’s vision. “I thank Mayor Albee and the Tea
m Asenso for the trust they have given me. It’s not that Mayor Albee is going to leave us; it’s only that when you’re in a team, you have to play different roles with one common objective. That is, do everything that we can to make Bacolod a super city,” he stated.
Benitez, on his part, emphasized his commitment to align his legislative actions with the city’s developmental goals. “At this stage, I will make sure that all the legislations and congressional acts that I’ll be doing are aligned with ensuring the acceleration of the mission to make Bacolod a super city,” he remarked.
The political reshuffle also sees Councilor Jesus Puentevella running for vice mayor. He, along with Benitez and Gasataya, will be part of a larger slate that includes candidates for 12 seats in the City Council. The lineup features both incumbent councilors and former councilors aiming for a comeback.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Familiaran, challenging for the mayorship, has chosen Councilor Renecito Novero as his vice mayoral running
mate. The team supporting Familiaran includes former councilors who are also contesting for City Council seats.
This strategic repositioning by Bacolod’s top officials could significantly impact the city’s political landscape and its developmental trajectory in the coming years.