Independent vice-presidential candidate Chiz Escudero is overwhelmed by the endorsement of Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, one of the most influential leaders in the Bicol region
In a statement, Escudero said Salceda’s backing would boost his political stock with barely two weeks before the May 9 general elections.
“Nagpapasalamat kami kay Gov. Joey at sa iba pang nagpahayag ng suporta. Alam nyo malaking bagay ‘yan para sa akin lalung-lalo na’t independent na kandidato po ako,” Escudero said.
“Wala po akong partido, makinarya o pera ‘di tulad ng ibang kandidato kung kaya’t anumang suporta na nagmumula sa mga opisyal, indibidwal, grupo, organisasyon o partido ay malaking bagay po ‘yan palagi para sa akin,” said Escudero.
Salceda is the former regional chairman of the ruling Liberal Party and in endorsing Escudero, he dumped the administration bet Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo.
Salceda’s decision to pick Escudero over Robredo is seen to shift the political balance in vote-rich Bicol region, which is home to more than 3.1 million registered voters.
The Albay provincial chief also earlier endorsed the candidacy of Escudero’s running mate, presidential bet Sen. Grace Poe.
