Gwen tightens grip

Apart from having the support of the Provincial Board, Garcia already has the backing of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter and the Vice Mayors League

The unopposed victory of a Cebu town councilor to the Philippine Councilors League (PCL)-Cebu Chapter further strengthened the leadership of Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia.

As PCL-Cebu Chapter new president, Tabogon Councilor Francis Salimbangon will sit as a member of the Provincial Board which is already occupied by a super majority supporting Garcia.

Salimbangon, son of former 4th District Rep. Benhur Salimbangon, was elected in the 548-strong PCL-Cebu Chapter during a recent election at the Social Hall of the Cebu Provincial Capitol.

The Salimbangons are known allies of Garcia.

There were some efforts reportedly made by the camps of 2nd District Rep. Wilfredo Caminero and 7th District Rep. Peter John Calderon to oppose Salimbangon but they were unable to muster the majority of the votes.

The two reportedly eyed nominating Sibonga Councilor and former Mayor Caroline Bacaltos.

Both Caminero and Calderon are allies of former governor and incumbent Vice Gov. Hilario Davide III.

Apart from having the support of the Provincial Board, Garcia already has the backing of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter and the Vice Mayors League.

The governor, however, is yet to muster the support of the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation and the Federation of the Association of Barangay Councils in the province.

Salimbangon will start performing as a member of the Provincial Board next month.