LEGAZPI CITY – The gubernatorial race for Albay province has been reduced to a direct contest following former Albay Governor Grex Lagman’s withdrawal from the electoral fray, as he has pledged his support to Noel Rosal. Rosal is set to compete against 2nd District Representative Joey Salceda.
Rosal, who was elected as Albay governor in the 2022 elections, faced disqualification from the Commission on Elections, while Lagman is currently under suspension by the Ombudsman.
Lagman made the announcement of his candidacy withdrawal during a press conference held at the Oriental Hotel in this city.
“By relinquishing my candidacy, I have instructed all my leaders and supporters to rally behind the candidacy of Rosal in order to enhance his prospects for success in the gubernatorial race. We shall collaborate to safeguard the province of Albay from politicians who seek to exploit state resources for personal gain, as well as from those who retain power through manipulation and avarice, rather than through the will of the people,” stated Lagman.
He indicated his intention to formally withdraw his candidacy from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) within this week.
Lagman highlighted that his decision to step aside aims to consolidate the alliance between the Lagman and Rosal factions.
“There is strength in unity. By aligning ourselves with Rosal, we reaffirm the principle that governance should be determined by the electorate, rather than by political machinations,” he remarked.
Lagman emphasized that this decision should not be perceived as a retreat from his responsibilities.
“I undertake this decision not with reluctance but from a genuine commitment to ensure that the future of Albay is entrusted to capable hands,” he articulated.
In response, Rosal expressed, “It is imperative that we unify the populace of Albay and uphold genuine democracy to protect the province from any irregularities.”
He extended his gratitude to Lagman for his decision.
“I am profoundly appreciative of Lagman’s substantial sacrifice in support of my candidacy, as he believes that I was indeed elected by the majority of the constituents of Albay during the 2022 elections,” Rosal stated.