P’sinan political leader seeks end to mudslinging

By Eva Visperas 

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The founding chairman of Biskeg na Pangasinan (Strength of Pangasinan) provincial political party urged Monday warring elected officials in the province to stop politicking and mudslinging, noting it deprives people of the services they deserve.

Secretary Antonio Villar Jr., chairman of the Dangerous Drugs Board, said politicians should stop sowing intrigues as it only creates divisiveness.

“It’s not good for them, it is not good for the people, it is not good for the province,” Villar, who is considered a political godfather in Pangasinan, said.

He said there is a time for politicking but for now, they must focus first on their job. 

“Their resignation was only board member (Alfonso Bince Jr.’s) idea. But I, myself, am not in favor of what they did,” he added, referring to the reported resignation of five provincial board members from the Nationalist People Coalition (NPC).

He said the resignation letter created a crack in the party, as political leaders close to both the camps of Gov. Amado Espino Jr. and former fifth district congressman Mark Cojuangco are now divided.

 “Instead of working harmoniously, they are creating an unhealthy environment for political leaders due to intrigues caused by the factions. This is not a good sign if we are really for the greater welfare of the people,” Villar said.

He said he had talked to Espino who assured him that he had no hand in the resignation of five board members from the NPC last week.

Espino, an NPC member, told local journalists he was not aware of the resignation move.

Villar had turned over to Espino the leadership of the BiskegnaPangasinan, which he now serves as chairman emeritus.

Four other board members listed in the resignation letter have not yet signed the letter. 

Bince, Danny Uy, Angel Baniqued Jr., Raul Sison and Nestor Reyes signed a letter dated May 7 resigning as NPC members effective June 1.