Upsets galore in House races

Upset victories and unexpected outcomes in the race for seats in the House of Representatives make Philippine elections the gripping political theater that it is.

- By ELLSON QUISMORIO

Three individuals who starred in their respective David versus Goliath moments during the mid-term polls last Monday, May 12, were Christopher “Sheen” Gonzales of Eastern Samar, Gerville "Jinky Bitrics" Lusitro of Batangas, and Brian Raymund Yamsuan of Paranaque City.

Gonzales, a former vice governor, defeated incumbent Rep. Maria Fe Abunda in the race for Eastern Samar’s lone congressional seat. He was proclaimed by the provincial board of canvassers last Tuesday, May 13, after garnering 177,413 votes to Abunda’s 106,781.

Abunda, sister of renowned television host Boy Abunda, was seeking a third and final term in the House. Her brother was a constant presence throughout the campaign, personally rallying support for her across the province.

In the end it was not enough as Gonzales, son-in-law of House Minority Leader 4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan, pulled off a convincing victory.

Gonzales is married to Libanan’s daughter, Eloisa. The congressional seat he won was previously held by Libanan for nine consecutive years.