BY FELIPE CELINO
PANAY, Capiz — Businessman Joel Longares denied spreading reports that he was disqualified from running for governor in the mid-term elections next year.
“I’m not disqualified,” Longares told reporters in a press conference, which he called to clarify the status of his candidacy. “In fact, Vice President Jejomar Binay assured me of his support.”
The businessman is running under the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) headed by Binay.
Longares also laughed off insinuations that he was a “nuisance” candidate. He accused the Liberal Party (LP) of spreading these reports.
He expressed confidence that he can defeat reelectionist Gov. Victor Tanco Sr., the official candidate of LP.
Longares, a native of Mambusao town, said his major advocacy is improving the agricultural and fishery production of Capiz.
“As I’ve said before, I want to help the farmers and the fishermen on how to improve their living condition by increasing their income,” he stressed.
The gubernatorial bet said he ventured into business with a seed capital of P2,000 when he went abroad in 1985.
Now he heads seven companies based in the United States.
“I want to apply my knowledge and expertise [as I help] my fellow Capiceños become successful,” he said.
Longares called for the press conference at the Taberna de Moscuvado Resto Bar here.
He confirmed that there is an alliance between UNA and the National Unity Party of 2nd District Rep. Jane Tan-Castro.
