As the 2025 mid-term elections draw near, the political landscape in Bacolod City is also heating up as key figures position themselves for potential realignments.
Congressman Greg Gasataya and Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran are both on their last term, sparking speculation about their next steps.
Gasataya has not yet revealed his future political ambitions, but some are urging him to challenge incumbent Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez, causing a stir within Asenso Bacolod.
Despite his last minute re-alignment with Asenso Bacolod last election, Gasataya has maintained his political brand after the election, not associating himself to “white” as party color of Asenso Bacolod. Also, despite his attendance at the pledge for unity and change launching of Asenso Movement at the Paglaum Sports Complex in Bacolod City last December 2023, Gasataya skipped the signing of the manifesto.
About 40,000 elected officials and family leaders from the 61 barangays of Bacolod City joined Benitez that time in a pledge for unity and change.
The launch of the Asenso Movement has even transcended party lines, with winning councilors from the GP joining Benitez on one stage.
Since that event, Gasataya is only occasionally seen with Benitez as he spends most of his time operating independently in the city. There are rumors suggesting that Gasataya may be positioning his daughter, Kap Inday Franz of Mansilingan, as his potential successor. This could potentially create a first in Bacolod politics if they form a father-daughter tandem. In this case, will Leonardia agrees to be their party-mate as vice mayor?
Meanwhile, Familiaran is also rumored to be considering the congressional post. Depending on his alignment, he could potentially face Kap Inday and former Bacolod City Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia in the 2025 elections. If Familiaran will align with Benitez, will Greg support the idea and instead consider the vice mayoralty post?
If this happens, then Leonardia will have to reorganize GP’s lineup. Speculation about Leonardia’s potential return to the Bacolod City Government Center has intensified with the emergence of the ‘Bring Back Bing’ (BBB) Facebook page, sparking talk about his attempt to evict Benitez at BCGC.
The interplay between key figures like Greg Gasataya, Bing Leonardia, and Albee Benitez will be crucial in shaping the strategies and alliances that will define the 2025 mid-term elections. The anticipation of potential reunions and new alignments within Grupo Progreso adds a layer of intrigue to Bacolod’s political narrative, making the upcoming local election a significant event to watch.
Challenges and Strategies for Grupo Progreso’s Revival
Reuniting Grupo Progreso in time for Bacolod’s 2025 mid-term election poses significant challenges, particularly if key figures such as Gasataya, Cid Familiaran, and Leonardia are unable to synchronize their political strategies.
The need for a cohesive and united front by October 2024 is important, yet it remains a formidable task given the current state of fragmentation within the party. The alignment of candidacies among these influential leaders is not just a matter of strategy but a necessity to present a unified face to Bacolodnons against the party led by a billionaire.
One strategic consideration is the potential role-switching between Greg Gasataya and El Cid Familiaran. Such a maneuver could be pivotal in consolidating their support base and presenting a fresh yet familiar leadership dynamic to the voters. This tactic could help mitigate internal rivalries, switching of support and parties, and establishing a clear and consistent political message.
In addition, Grupo Progreso must focus on bringing back their former allies including those who are currently at the city council who may have shifted their allegiance to Benitez. Councilors Renecito Novero, Cindy Rojas, Em Ang, and Israel Salanga are instrumental in rebuilding the party’s influence. Ensuring that these councilors are back on the red team can strengthen GP’s legislative support and ground support.
If Bing is successful in reunifying and restoring GP this demonstrates how established political entities can evolve and reassert their relevance in changing times.
