THE PEOPLE who really know me understand that I have always spoken in favor of empowering the Kapampangans in achieving poverty eradication especially for the local farmers, and decent livelihood for all.
I have always supported a candidate based on a platform which embodied what I believe to be good for my kabalens, but it is for the people themselves to decide who they desire according to what programs they offer.
The election is over and the people have spoken. I congratulate the winners of the recent polls in my home province of Pampanga. But let us not fail to look after the 453,408 kabalens who voted and prayed for a reform in the style of leadership.
My fellow Kapampangans who are voiceless were the ones who came to me to speak out their desires. Even some former elected leaders who used to be serving in their towns approached me. One of their grievances was about the ill effects of “talpakan” or e-sabong, and I delivered the sentiments of the people to the Senate. The issue on improper waste disposal and environment protection affecting the Pampanga River among others had also been raised. I am just a Kapampangan who listens to the needs of the people and I convey the message.
I have nothing personal against the Pinedas. I have been their ally in their good advocacy when I was still the mayor of Candaba for three terms. And never did I ask for any personal favor from them in more than a decade that I have been with the family. Instead of interpreting my preference as a “personal attack” against them, I do hope that they rather take it constructively for the betterment of their constituents.
I would still support any leader of our province who will push in realizing our dreams of having concrete programs for the welfare of our local farmers, a leader who will continue to form a true and active provincial development council, a leader who cares about peace and order, a promoter for culinary tourism, a leader who would personally face and listen to the needs of the people of Pampanga, and a leader who fears the Lord.
Moving forward, I encourage my fellow Kapampangans to pray for our newly elected officials so they may successfully lead our people and the province in the furtherance of prosperity and promotion of equal opportunity for all.
Kaluguran taya ing Pampanga.
I thank you all, and may God continue to bless our province.
(Statement of former Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo who figured in the gubernatorial campaign of eventual loser Danilo Baylon, his townmate/11 May 2022)
