Robredo consolidates support of Northern Mindanao politicians

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Vice President Leni Robredo consolidated her support among Northern Mindanao political leaders as her rivals barnstorm other parts of Mindanao this week.

Robredo held meetings with a host of politicians on Wednesday here ahead of sorties in Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur on Thursday and Friday.

Robredo first met with reelectionist Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, president of the Centrist Democratic Party (CDP), who earlier endorsed her presidential bid, and his local allies.

After the 30-minute meeting, Rodriguez said they are emboldened by Robredo’s commitment to prioritize major infrastructure in Mindanao to boost the region’s economic competitiveness.

Rodriguez told reporters that, in return, he committed to convincing Mindanao legislators to throw their support behind Robredo’s candidacy.

He added that there have been new breakthroughs in efforts to haul local politicians in Mindanao into their fold. The CDP has an alliance with local political groups in Cagayan de Oro and Rodriguez said he will also convince them to support Robredo.