FORMER governor Oscar Orbos had a change of heart, paving the way for a three-cornered fight for the top provincial post in Pangasinan.

The race for governorship is now confined among Vice Governor Oscar Lambino representing the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats party, 2nd district Rep. Amado Espino, and Dr. Jamie Agbayani, wife of the incumbent, who is running as an independent bet.

“I regret I cannot, given the constraints and difficulties, rise to the challenge to seek the governorship,” Orbos said in a letter addressed to his leaders and supporters.

“I am humbled by this decision, knowing that many of our province mates are hopeful that I would join the race to provide a worthy alternative to serve our people,” said Orbos who was governor from 1995-1998.

Political observers have indicated that without a party, running mate, and candidates for board members and mayors, Orbos would have had an uphill battle against all his opponents.

Encouraged earlier by many sectors to stage a comeback in the province, Orbos said he could have mounted a province-wide campaign “anchored on competence, integrity, decency and self-sacrifice for those who hold public office.”

“Having served before as governor voted by an overwhelming majority of 98.5 per cent of the electorate, I must admit that I am deeply touched and moved by the various expression of support to my reported comeback bid,” he said.

In parting, Orbos said he trusts that he will still be worthy to be part of the overall effort to be of service to every one in whatever way he can to promote the interest of the province even if he is no longer in the race.

NUISCANCE
CANDIDATES?

Meanwhile, three others filed a certificate of candidacy for governor but are considered minor players in the race.

They are Bartolome Padilla of Rosales town, Modesto Capulong of Mangaldan town and Reynaldo Sebastian of Asingan town, all of whom are running as independent candidates.

Atty. Reddy Balarbar, provincial election supervisor, reportedly urged Espino, Agbayani and Lambino to file the necessary petition for the Padilla, Capulong and Sebastian from the official list of gubernatorial candidates as the mere reading of their names during canvassing will needless be a burden for election inspectors.-LM/EVA

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