Davide on Garcia hint to run for governor: That’s her right

CEBU CITY – Cebu Governor Hilario Davide II welcomed reports that Cebu 3rd District Rep. Gwendolyn Garcia is seriously thinking of running for governor next year.

“That’s her right. It’s anybody’s right to run for public office,” said Davide of Garcia’s supposed intention.

In an interview by a local radio station, Garcia said the possibility of running against Davide had something to do with the recent order by the Office of the Ombudsman dismissing her from public office.

It was Davide and Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale who filed the case against Garcia.

Garcia said the Davide filed the case because he is afraid to take her on.

Davide shrugged off Garcia’s claims. “I am not afraid of her or anyone,” he said.

Asked how he rates his chances of winning in a face-off with Garcia, Davide responded: “It should be what’s her chances of winning against me because I am the incumbent.”

The Ombudsman accused Garcia of grave misconduct for her role in the 2012 purchase of backfilling materials for the Balili property, when she was still Cebu governor.

Davide said even the dismissal order that carries the accessory penalties of perpetual disqualification from holding public office should not stop Garcia from running for governor.

“It’s not yet final. She can still exhaust all legal remedies provided by law,” he said.

Garcia also questioned why the Ombudsman has yet to act on the criminal complaint that she filed against Davide for allowing the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) to become a rundown structure.