Liberal Party (LP) stalwart and Oriental Mindoro Gov. Alfonso Umali Jr. gave a warm welcome to vice presidential bet Bongbong Marcos and his unity caravan which visited the province on 28 April 2016.
“Hindi naman pwedeng hindi pagbigyan si Bongbong,” said Umali in explaining why he opened his doors to Marcos.
Umali is the President of the Governors League of the Philippines. He is also a close friend of President Benigno Aquino III who has been vocal in his opposition to Marcos’ VP run.
In his statement, Marcos claimed he was mobbed like a “rock star” by local officials and workers in Umali’s office.
Marcos pointed out that both their fathers were good friends. “Kami ni Gov. Umali ang mga second generation nang magkakaibigan,” Marcos said.
Marcos was also recieved warmly by re-electionist Calapan City Mayor Arnan Panaligan of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), his vice mayoral bet Gil Ramirez and the rest of their Council slate.
Marcos’ visiting delegation included Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos, a childhood friend of Panaligan.
After visiting Umali, Marcos also met with Vice Governor Humerlito Dolor at the People’s Hall where he was rewarded a “Gawad Tamaraw” award for his contribution to the improvement of public works in Oriental Mindoro.
Marcos is Chair of the Committee on Local Government.
