A 73-year-old businessman yesterday filed his certificate of candidacy for mayor of Bacolod City at the Commission on Elections Office.

Alberto Ala-an Calaguing Sr., separated, of Brgy. 22, Bacolod City is running as an independent candidate.

He said he will be using his own money to fund his campaign and he hopes to address certain unresolved problems in the city if he is elected mayor.

Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia, when asked for comment, said this is a free country and everybody can run. "As I have always said, I cannot choose my opponents," he said.

When informed that former Mayor Oscar Verdeflor is planning to stage a comeback, Leonardia said that was expected. He said he is prepared for any scenario.

He said they will also make an official announcement in due time when there is a party decision on who will be his vice mayor.

When asked to react to the statement of Bacolod Rep. Monico Puentevella that his administration is harassing the solon's children, Leonardia said, "How can a simple and lowly mayor harass the children of a high and mighty congressman?"

"And besides, this administration has never been reputed to resort to harassment and will never do so as long as people follow the law, follow procedures or requirements," he said.*CGS

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