Rebaldo, Zaraspe face off in RMN debate

Noel Cabobos
KALIBO, Aklan—Politics indeed makes strange bedfellows.This goes true with the mayoral campaign here as former allies – incumbent mayor Raymar Rebaldo and his 2004 runningmate Apol Zaraspe – crossed paths yesterday in the “Candidates Forum” organized by RMN-dyKR and co-sponsored by The Daily Guardian, Kalibo Cable TV and Latte’.

Although the two took potshots at each other because of their differing priorities and concerns, the debate was considered as “civilized,” according to Fr. Isauro David, parish priest of Makato Parish Church, who led the group of panelist composed of Leonardo Agopitac of the Aklan Ati-atihan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and George Calaor of Bayan Muna-Aklan.

Rebaldo, who is running under Tibyog, the ruling local administration party here, and Zaraspe of the United Opposition, highlighted their platforms of government and priorities for this capital town.

One of the mayoralty candidates, William Lachica, also of the opposition, did not show up.

Rebaldo’s concerns and priorities include the continuation of his pro-poor programs; the proposed cityhood of Kalibo; tapping other resources to improve the town’s economy; good governance; and the continuity of a united leadership which he said is a big boost to the development of the municipality.

For his part, Zaraspe zeroed in on giving business establishments tax holidays as incentives to businessmen for boosting this town’s economy; creation of a consultative council composed of various sectors to help draft of beneficial ordinances and in mapping out of general program of actions for the development of this town; and proper relocation of squatters affected by land disputes, especially in the downtown area.

The Candidates Forum, hosted by RMN-dyKR program director and TDG Aklan Bureau chief Jonathan Cabrera, aims to inform the public on the platforms and priorities of candidates.

The dialogue also serves as a vehicle for interaction between the media and sectoral groups concerned for the progress and development of the province.