The Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), the ruling party in the country, is facing a potential dilemma in the first congressional district of Bohol after two prominent personalities joined the party, both vying for the same seat.
Former Tagbilaran Mayor John Geesnell “Baba” Yap and Dr. Mutya Kismet Macuno have both taken their oaths of allegiance to the PFP, sparking concerns that the party may be forced to choose between the two candidates.
According to election laws, only one person can be granted a certificate of nomination and acceptance (CONA), which could lead to a complicated situation for the party.
Yap, who recently left the National Unity Party (NUP), took his oath before South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. on September 2.
His decision to join the PFP is seen as a strategic move, as the provincial leader of the NUP in Bohol is First District Congressman Edgar M. Chatto.
Meanwhile, Dr. Macuno, who has also set her sights on the congressional seat, took her oath before Dimiao Vice Mayor Jessie Paluga on September 3.
Sources close to the party indicate that her entry into the PFP had the blessings of the regional party leadership.
The development has raised questions about how the PFP will navigate this situation, with some speculating that the party may be forced to choose between the two candidates or risk a potentially divisive Bohol election in the first district.
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