Former Bacolod City Mayor Luzviminda “Joy” Valdez has endorsed the re-election bid of Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia for the May 2022 elections, a press release from the city said.
Valdez’s support came as a surprise and a big boost to Leonardia’s campaign as both of them used to belong to different political camps.
Valdez, who had served as Bacolod mayor in 2001 until 2004, is known for her strong advocacies as champion of the welfare of persons with disability.
She also took the frontline promoting family, women and children’s rights and gender equality.
She visited Leonardia yesterday, January 19, at his Bacolod City Government Center office to formally announce her support.
“It is heart-warming that former Mayor Joy (Valdez) is giving me her support. I cannot overemphasize my gratitude to her for coming out to endorse me. I am humbled by her gesture,” Leonardia said.
Valdez’s support came on the heels of endorsements to Leonardia and the Grupo Progreso slate coming from more Barangay captains.
Village chiefs who renewed their support to Leonardia were Hersy Sibug of Barangay 7; Rodolfo Pico, Barangay Mansilingan; Rudy Baydo, Sr., Barangay 6;
Rommel Flores, Barangay Villamonte; Ernesto Yap, Jr., Barangay 32; Antonio Ongsinco, Barangay 4; Rogelio Pabiania, Barangay 17; Salvacion Penuela, Barangay 41; Madeline Diaz, Barangay 18; Lady Gles Pallen, Barangay Taculing; Glo Ann Tambasen, Barangay Montevista and Degie Tanista of Barangay Alangilan, who endorsed Leonardia at the Barangay Health Response Teams (BHERTs) meeting held in Barangay Montevista.*