One of the most revered Chinese general is Sun Tzu whose “Art of War” has found its way in political and even in business management textbooks. But Sun Tzu’s classics will definitely become out of touch when one talks of electoral warfare in the Province of Camarines Sur – the province where politics divide not only political boundaries but also families.
Earlier, House Bill (HB) No. 4820 that sought to divide Camarines Sur into two was passed and almost became a law had it not for the objection and vigilance of 5th District Congressman Sal Fortuno, Governor L-Ray Villafuerte and members of civil society. Because the proponents led by 4th District Congressman Noli Fuentebella and 3rd District Congressman Luis Villafuerte made some miscalculations in the timing and acceptability of the measure, the bill was overtaken by time and was shelved in Congress.
Ngonian, buhay na naman ang barangaan asin nabukag talaga an Camarines Sur sa pagralaban kan mga magkakapamilya. L-Ray “Migs” Villafuerte Jr., (Nacionalista Party, NP) competed against his grandfather, Luis Villafuerte (Nationalist People’s Coalition, NPC) , for the gubernatorial seat while Ganggang Alfelor (Liberal Party, LP) run against Emmanuel “Nonokoy” Alfelor Jr.,(NPC) in the mayoralty seat of Iriga City. Contrary to expectations, however, third party candidates did not benefit from the intra-family or intra-clan feud. Jose Villanueva Jr., only got 17.91% of the mayoralty vote while Ganggang and Nonokoy got 50.32% and 31.12%, respectively. Likewise, Joel Cadiz (LP) who was expected to become the dark horse of the gubernatorial race remained an underdog after generating only 23.30% of the total votes cast as against Migz who gained 42.54%, and Luis, who came out with only 33.06%.
