FORMER Social Security System Commissioner Jose Gabriele ‘Pompee’ La Viña reaffirmed his intention to run for Cagayan de Oro City mayor in the upcoming election, declaring his candidacy with or without an official slate.
La Viña, making his third bid for the position, stated unequivocally that he would never consider running for vice mayor.
“Never, never,” La Viña said during a press briefing organized by the Cagayan de Oro Press Club on September 4.
He pointed out his goal of bringing change to local governance, reiterating that his focus is solely on the mayoral race.
While La Viña is open to running without a political lineup, he hinted at a possible alliance with his former electoral ally, Padayon Pilipino.
“My natural ally is Padayon Pilipino; in fact, my heart is with them,” he said, though he clarified that no final agreements have been made.
Padayon Pilipino Chairman and 1st District Congressman Lordan Suan has yet to finalize a lineup for the 2025 elections, according to a statement released by Deputy Director Bert Amplayo.
Suan previously indicated that he is open to various candidates, including La Viña, former Mayor Oscar Moreno, and current Phividec Administrator Atty. Joseph Bernedo.
Yevgeny Vincente Emano, son of Padayon Pilipino founder Vicente Emano and current 2nd District representative, said in a radio interview recently that he would defer to Suan’s decision on whom the party will support, giving Suan until the third week of September to finalize the lineup.
