Pinedas, Arroyo rule race for Pampanga gov, congressman

By Franco Regala

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga — The Pineda-Arroyo clan won in the gubernatorial and congressional races by wide margins amid glitches that caused the delay of some election results in the province.

The final unofficial count for the gubernatorial race showed Dennis Pineda (NPC) leading with 636, 479 votes over his closest opponent Jomar Hizon, with 222, 626 votes. James Escoto placed third and Amado Santos fourth.

Lilia Pineda (KMBILAN) ran unopposed as vice governor, garnering 784, 639 votes.

The Pinedas have long been the political kingpins in the province, switching positions as governor and vice governor.

Former presidential son Mikee Arroyo, meanwhile, was set to retake his congressional seat in Pampanga’s 2nd district, overwhelming his opponent Jun Ponio.

Incumbent 1st district Representative Carmelo Lazatin beat Gilas coach Yeng Guiao, 144, 493 votes to 101, 062.

Another contender, Bernadette David, had 3, 482 votes.

Another incumbent congressman, Aurelio Gonzales, also grabbed a second chance for the 3rd district, garnering 224, 690 votes, leaving behind his opponent Cecilia Canlas far behind with 20, 648 votes.

              Juan Miguel Bondoc, also an incumbent congressman of Pampanga’s 4th district led with 167, 553 votes, beating Ricardo Yabut (73, 891) and Regino Mallari (1, 638).