Balamban Mayor Edwin “Amos” Cabahug has publicly expressed support for the possibility of Cebu Provincial Government public health consultant Dr. Elisse Nicole “Nikki” Catalan running for the congressional seat of Cebu’s 3rd District, though Catalan said she has no plans to enter politics.
Cabahug made the remarks on Tuesday during Governor Pamela Baricuatro’s visit to Balamban for the inauguration of the Tourist Rest Area in Barangay Gaas and the launch of the provincial government’s feeding program at Jose Chona Jo Elementary School in Barangay Cambuhawe.
During the event, Cabahug thanked the provincial government for its assistance and projects benefiting Balamban. He also recognized Catalan’s contributions to healthcare initiatives, including efforts to improve services at the town’s hospital.
The mayor then expressed his personal hope that Catalan would consider seeking an elective post in the future.
“Magpatabang ko ninyo og ampo ha nga unta puhon-puhon mausab ug lamdagan unta sa atong Panginoong Diyos ang huna-huna ug kasingkasing ni Doktora Nikki nga mo serbisyo sa atong District III,” Cabahug said.
Cabahug clarified that his statement reflected his personal opinion but said he believes Catalan has qualities that could make her a suitable representative for the district.
“Ako ra ning pangagpas ha nga unta modagan ni siya pagka-congresswoman. Makita nato si Dr. Nikki nga abtik pud kaayo, pareha ra pud sa iyang mommy nga dali ra kaayong duolon, dali ra makatabang sa Balamban,” he said.
He added that he believes Catalan could help ensure that government resources intended for the district would be used for projects benefiting residents if she eventually seeks public office.
Catalan, however, downplayed the remarks when asked about Cabahug’s statement after the event, describing it as a joke rather than a serious political plan.
“I think sungog ra jud to ni Mayor Amos. Wala jud ko, oy, plans,” Catalan said.
She said her current focus remains on improving healthcare services in Cebu Province.
“Daghan pa kaayo’g trabahoon on healthcare. I’m very happy on my role as consultant,” she said.
Catalan serves as public health consultant of the Cebu Provincial Government, where she works on health-related initiatives under the administration of Governor Pamela Baricuatro.
The Cebu 3rd District congressional seat is currently held by Rep. Karen Garcia.
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