By Bernie Faber Concepcion

JOLO, Sulu — Alsid Estrada Gonzalez, a prominent figure in the local community, has officially announced his candidacy for the upcoming mayoral elections in the capital town of Jolo. Filing his candidacy under the banner of the Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (KBL) party, Gonzalez is backed by a formidable coalition that includes the President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. administration’s ruling party, Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), and the BARMM dominant regional United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) . He is promising a fresh approach to governance, aiming to transform Jolo into a thriving city.

Gonzales, a graduate and a respected figure in the community, is running on a platform of modernization and progress, emphasizing a break from the traditional political system. His 10-point agenda focuses on addressing key concerns such as poverty, unemployment, and limited opportunities, issues that have plagued Jolo for decades.

“We need a change,” Gonzales declared during his candidacy announcement, drawing a clear distinction between his vision and the current administration. “We need leadership that is accountable, transparent, and focused on serving the people, especially the poorest among us.”

Gonzales’ campaign promises include improving fiscal management, enhancing accountability, and tapping into the rich natural resources of the Province of Sulu and its environs to create economic opportunities. He also plans to implement infrastructure projects that will elevate the town into a new economic hub.

Cheng Gonzales, as he is fondly called, points to his past accomplishments, such as the construction of a light rail train system and an underground tunnel connection, as evidence of his capabilities and a vision for modernization in Jolo. He believes these projects will elevate Jolo’s status to that of a city.

“We have the potential to become a leading center in the region,” Gonzalez stated, highlighting his vision for a prosperous and progressive Jolo. “I believe in the Tausug people, and I believe in our collective ability to achieve a brighter future.”

Gonzales’ candidacy has been met with enthusiasm from colleagues and supporters, who see him as a beacon of hope for a town yearning for change. He faces a formidable challenge against the incumbent administration, but his unwavering commitment to serving the people and his ambitious vision for Jolo’s future have ignited a wave of optimism among the electorate.

Running under the party’s standard -bearer for governor Hadji Abdulwahid Sahidulla and Vice-gubernatorial bet Engr. Shang Loong, Gonzales is optimistic that the people of Jolo shall eventually realize the need for change.

Jolo has a population of over hundred thousand and about over 70 thousand voters for the 2025 elections.

Born and raised as a Muslim, an upright father belonging to a religious clan in Sulu, Gonzales is a contractor, successful businessman, an entrepreneur, and a symbol of multi-faiths unity and harmony in the Jolo capital town.

With the elections fast approaching, the people of Jolo will have to decide whether they are ready for a new era of leadership under Alsid Estrada Gonzales.(Bfc)