In clash of cousins, Miraflores defeats Haresco in Aklan’s 2nd District 

The Miraflores political clan further solidifies its hold on Aklan, with Congressman-elect Joeben Miraflores’ son, Governor Jose Enrique “Joen,” securing a second term

ILOILO CITY, Philippines – In a closely contested political clash between rivals and cousins, Florencio “Joeben” Miraflores edged out Teodorico “Nonong” Haresco to win the congressional seat of Aklan’s 2nd District. 

Miraflores garnered 88,795, narrowly defeating Haresco, who received 85,253, according to the official poll results. The margin of just 3,542 votes ended Haresco’s bid for a final term in Congress.

“The election is over. I appeal to everyone, whether you are with Tibyog or not, let us begin to shoulder the burden together and work toward a peaceful and united community,” Miraflores said in Akeanon in a Facebook post on Tuesday, May 13.

The Miraflores political clan further solidified its hold on Aklan, with Joeben’s son, Governor Jose Enrique “Joen” Miraflores, securing a second term. 

He received a commanding 232,489 votes, defeating independent candidates Pier Teodosio and Willie Tolentino. 

In the vice gubernatorial race, Balete Mayor Dexter Calizo narrowly defeated Jun Legaspi, earning 151,877 votes against Legaspi’s 150,926 — a difference of only 951 votes. 

Over in the 1st District, Jesus “Papa Jess” Marquez succeeded his father, Carlito Marquez, after two terms. 

Carlito previously led the push for the creation of the two congressional districts in Aklan and became the first representative of the 1st District in 2019.

However, the victories of the Miraflores-Marquez alliance are being clouded by controversy.

A disqualification case has been filed against Joeben and Joen Miraflores, as well as Papa Jess Marquez, over allegations of vote buying and misuse of public resources during the campaign.

Members of their local party, Tibyog Akean, elected to the Provincial Board in the 2nd District — Bayani Cordova, Romeo Dalisay, Jupiter Aelred Gallenero, and Ricardo Ibarreta Jr. — have also been named in the complaint. 

Another party mate, Plaridel Solidum, failed to secure one of the five board seats. – Rappler.com