Lacson inclined to run for Manila mayor

Sen. Panfilo Lacson on Saturday admitted being more inclined to seek the mayoralty post in Manila. He said he had made several rounds in Manila ’s six districts and that the response was "very encouraging." In interview with radio station dwIZ, Lacson said he was happier with his work in the executive branch, having been in the department for a long time as police official, than with his six-year stint in the legislature. Besides, he said, Manila is a microcosm of Philippine society. However, the senator said he would reveal his decision by November 15. Lacson is also contemplating to seek reelection as senator. Lacson said that while he has many advocacies that he could push in the Senate, he could not realize these "because you have to deal with tyranny of numbers." "Nakahawak ako, all my life practically sa executive department. Napunta ako sa legislature, na-miss ko ang executive branch (Practically all my life I was in the executive department. Now that I am in the legislature, I miss the executive department)," Lacson said. Based on surveys they had conducted, Lacson said Sen. Alfredo Lim came out to be his strongest rival. "I am not a strong believer in surveys, pero pag nakita mo (the results of the surveys) encouraging," he said. He has not ruled out though seeking reelection in the senatorial race under the broad opposition coalition. He said would talk with former President Joseph Estrada anytime. Estrada reportedly came out with a shortlist of senatoriables. While former Estrada critics are included in the list, Lacson’s name was omitted. Lacson said he could not find a reason why he was not included in the opposition slate. "Hindi ko alam. Wala akong opinyon. Wala akong nakikitang dahilan. Sabi naman niya (Estrada) hindi final ang list (I don't know why. I have no opinion on the matter. I don't see any reason for it. Anyway, he said the list wasn't final)," Lacson said. He also wondered why Sen. Edgardo Angara, president of Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino, was not included in the list if there will be a broad alliance of opposition parties. The coalition ticket is not yet detailed. Talks are still ongoing, Lacson said. - GMANews.TV