Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado has acknowledged that recent national political controversies have affected his bid for reelection as Bohol governor, particularly due to his alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration.
“If people would take national issues as the basis for turning their back at me, I will respect the people’s position,” Aumentado said.
The governor’s remarks come amid escalating tensions between supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte and the current administration led by President Marcos and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Aumentado noted increasing criticism online, with some constituents calling to reject candidates aligned with the Marcos administration.
He said while he cannot control public opinion, some attacks have been “below the belt.”
If voters decide against his reelection, Aumentado urged support for gubernatorial candidate Hardy Leopando rather than former Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan Neri Lim, saying Lim “already had the chance to serve.”
The governor also expressed admiration for former President Duterte “for bravely facing arrest,” which led to Duterte’s appearance at The Hague, but declined further comment to avoid increasing tensions.
Online criticism of Aumentado has intensified following his wife Cong. Vanessa Aumentado’s vote to advance impeachment articles to the Senate.
She currently represents Bohol’s second district in Congress.