Pam Baricuatro gets boost from Duterte's common-law wife

Cebu gubernatorial candidate Pamela “Pam” Baricuatro recently gained an apparent boost to her campaign following the public endorsement of Honeylet Avanceña, the common-law wife of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

- Caecent No-ot Magsumbol, Kristin de Dios/ATO

Avanceña publicly expressed her admiration for Baricuatro and urged Cebuanos to support her in the upcoming May 12 election.

In a video by a Duterte supporter, which was shared by Baricuatro’s official page, Avanceña revealed her fondness for the candidate when approached outside the ICC Detention Center in The Hague, Netherlands.

“Ah, oh yes. Oh uy, ganahan kaayo ko ana niya…Mutan-aw baya ko ana iyahang, kuan gani kos iyang [page]. Unsay tawag gani ana? Follow ba na?” Avanceña said.

Avanceña went further, declaring Baricuatro as very fit for the role of Cebu governor.

"Bagay man siya mahimong Gov. I know na ikaw gyud ra diha, Gov. Pam," she said.

She also appealed to Cebuanos, asking for their support in trying "a new way of governance" and highlighting Baricuatro's qualities as a leader who has endured hardships and exemplifies resilience.

"Mga Cebuano palihug ko og tabang kay Pam Baricuatro, sulayi pod ninyo ang laing pamaagi sa pang gobyerno...Maayo man ning tao nga niagi og kalisod, magdumala og kuan, pareho ba ni former president (Duterte).

Suporta man gyud na siya (Pam) kay former president so mga taga Cebu, Pam Baricuatro sa umaabot nga election May 12. Daghang salamat," Avanceña ended.

This endorsement adds to the support Baricuatro previously received from former President Duterte himself, who had endorsed her candidacy alongside other PDPLaban bets.

Duterte's endorsement extended to notable local candidates like Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama and Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes, who are both seeking re-election, Paz Radaza who is eyeing a return as mayor of Lapu-Lapu, and Binggol Villo in Consolacion.

PAM EXPRESSED GRATITUDE