THE picture of the coming gubernatorial fight in Pangasinan remains hazy till last week although indications are that it could be a three-cornered derby.

The Agbayani family is still locked in a serious “consultation process” as to which option is best — to field the wife of incumbent Gov. Victor E. Agbayani in the race for governor, or he runs for the second district as congressman or as senatorial bet under the administration coalition, according to provincial information officer Ruel Camba.

Camba told the Patrima Kapihan at the Magic Café last Thursday that the family has not yet reached any decision noting that the last day for filing certificates of candidacy for local candidates is on March 29 yet.

Vice-Gov. Oscar B. Lambino, one of the guests at the weekly forum along with retired Deputy Director General Reynaldo Velasco, made a similar observation saying he has been talking with the governor about the development of politics in the province and has been weighing his options well.

He added that if possible he wants the personalities in the administration party in the province to remain united in order to fully support the national candidates of the party.

“Kung divided kami ang concentration ng kampanya namin ay para sa sarili lamang,”(If we’re divided, our concentration in the campaign will be for our individual selves only) he noted.

Local governments Undersecretary Antonio “Bebot” Villar, who is again being pushed by some political leaders to seek the governorship, has indicated his willingness to sacrifice anew “for the sake of unity.”

Villar thru his staff Eva Visperas told the Kapihan that personally he is willing to give way to the other candidates due to his closeness to at least three of the candidates. Lambino is a close relative, while second district Congressman Amado Espino, who has announced his bid and already doing pre-campaign sorties, is also close to him having been godfather to Espino’s sons. The Villars and Agbayanis likewise have a long history of political friendship.

“Bahala na si Presidente but I can sacrifice again,” he said, thru his spokeswoman. In the 2001 elections, it will be recalled , he nearly clashed with Victor but at the last minute he backed off after the two had a talk.

Asked if he can also make a similar stand, Lambino said he was willing to do so. “Sang-ayon ako dyan, (I’m all for that)” he said. Talks are rife that he might be offered a Cabinet position if he abandons his gubernatorial plans.

Two other names earlier floated as interested in joining the race appear no longer considered serious in their bids – sixth district Congressman Conrad Estrella who is reported to be seeking another term, and Administrator Arturo Lomibao of the National Irrigation Administration, who is reportedly being eyed for the DPWH post that might be vacated by Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr.

Dr. Jamie Agbayani sent Camba as representative to the forum while Espino begged off due to his busy schedule. (DOS)