ILIGAN City ― Former Vice Mayor Jemar Vera Cruz announced a “free zone” stance for his political team, addressing speculation about alliances ahead of the upcoming local elections.
The statement came after ex-mayor Franklin M. Quijano, who filed his certificate of candidacy alongside Vera Cruz’s group, was seen wearing a different color than the team’s standard white-and-multicolored shirts.
Vera Cruz clarified that Quijano is not officially part of their slate.
Vera Cruz, a two-term vice mayor and former priest, ran for mayor in the previous election but lost to incumbent Mayor Frederick W. Siao, leading to a fallout with his former ally and now Congressman Celso G. Regencia.
Despite hints of returning to priesthood, Vera Cruz said he is committed to public service.
The Abante Iligan team is fielding eight candidates for city council, with some members previously aligned with Regencia's “red” team.
Retired police officer Graciano Mijares is vying for a congressional seat, a shift from earlier expectations he would run for mayor.
Mijares, regarded as a local hero after thwarting a robbery over a decade ago, has bolstered the team’s reputation.
Meanwhile, Vera Cruz criticized Mayor Siao’s administration over alleged moves to privatize water services, a claim the city denies.
Outside politics, Vera Cruz remains active in agriculture, managing a farm in Lanipao barangay where he cultivates bamboo and other trees.
