BALINGASAG, Misamis Oriental — Rep. Yevgeny Vincente ‘Bambi’ Emano, chair of the PaDayon Pilipino party and incumbent representative of Misamis Oriental’s 2nd District, called for support for the Unabia family during a proclamation rally on Wednesday evening, April 9, at the public gym in Balingasag.
Emano, who is running unopposed for a third term in Congress, urged backing for Gov. Peter Unabia, 1st District Rep. Christian Unabia, and Joshua Unabia, who is running for mayor of Balingasag. He also endorsed all other candidates under the Paglaum coalition across the province.
Former Mayor Marietta Abogado, a candidate for municipal councilor under the Paglaum banner, said approximately 7,000 supporters attended the rally in Balingasag, one of the province's most vote-rich areas.
Unlike previous appearances, Gov. Unabia avoided controversial remarks and instead presented his administration’s achievements. However, he made a brief comment referring to critics, saying, “They are just onion-skinned.”
Rep. Christian Unabia also took the stage to highlight projects and programs implemented in the province’s 1st District.
The rally comes amid controversies involving both father and son. Gov. Unabia is currently facing a show cause order from the Commission on Elections over alleged discriminatory remarks against women made during a previous campaign event.
Meanwhile, Rep. Christian Unabia has drawn criticism for reportedly signing an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, allegedly in exchange for financial aid.
In an interview, a local resident, who requested anonymity, said, “He has no principles — just because of the alleged aid, he signed the impeachment complaint against the vice president.”
Also speaking at the rally was Ako Padayon Pilipino Party-list first nominee Benjo Benaldo, who asked for voter support and pledged to work toward lowering electricity rates if elected to Congress.
Emano also endorsed several other candidates for board member positions in the 1st District, including Talisayan Vice Mayor Rommel Maslog, Gingoog City Councilor Roy Aniscal, and re-electionists Rey Buhisan, Marlon Kho, and Jabi Bernaldez. He also called for the re-election of Vice Gov. Jeremy Jonahmar Pelaez.
