By ROGER M. BALANZA
View More: BANGKAL THREATENED URBAN SETTLERS. L
Re-electionist barangay captain Benhor Calamba, Villarente’s nemesis in a one-on-one fight, reportedly is siding with the alleged owner of the property. Calamba reportedly brokered a dialog between the alleged of the owner and his lawyer and the occupants over the demolition of the settlers.
Villarente opposed the demolition and the dialog, until the alleged owner and his lawyer present a court order to demolish.
Villarente reportedly already won a court case for the settlers many years when he acted as lawyer motu proprio for the occupants.
“Walay singot,” one constituent apparently a fan of Villlarente, said in assessing the dim chances of Calamba in a one-on-one fight vs. the lawyer.
Villarente gained popularity in his own brand of “public service” — door-to-door, 24/7 — like legal assistance and community consultations that endeared him to the heart of the people.
Signs that constituents of Talomo, one of Davao City’s biggest barangays, want a new leader in the coming polls, was documented in a pre-poll survey, conducted by no less than a group identified with the incumbent captain, that had Villlarente winning by a wide margin against Calamba .
Villarente may thank his constituents for their support.
But the lawyer will also be grateful to many barangay konsehales who visited and encouraged and congratulated him for his coming victory.
Two of his recent visitors were Barangay Matina Crossing kagawad Halog and Lara, who express their support, in whatever way they can including to campaign for Villarente even if they cannot inTalomo Proper.
THE DURIAN POST 