Detained Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim has formally declared his intention to run in the senatorial race in May 2010 during his visit to his birthplace in Solano town, Nueva Vizcaya.

“Today, I formally declare my intention to run for senator in next year’s elections. My decision was brought about by my drive to pursue reform advocacies I have fought for as a military officer for the past 35 years; and, more importantly, to continue to serve my country and people,” the 54-year-old Army officer said.

Court authorities allowed Lim to leave his detention cell at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame to register as a voter in his hometown.

Clad in light orange polo shirt and black slacks, Lim was escorted by police elements who took him to Solano on board a Mitsubishi L-300 van. He arrived in the area around 10a.m., according to his spokesman Allan Tanjusay.

The Makati Regional Trial Court gave Lim a two-day pass to transfer his birth records to the local Commission on Elections as part of the voter’s registration process that will pave the way for his filing of candidacy.

“I chose to register here in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya so I can go back to my roots and revisit my past as I embark on another chapter of my life. Also, by doing so, I am hoping that I could help revive and unite the Ilocano spirit in the coming elections,” Lim said.

Several political parties identified with the opposition have offered Lim – a graduate of the US Military Academy a West Point – a slot in their senatorial line up but he has yet to decide which group to join.

Among the suitors are the camps of former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada of Puwersa ng Masang Pilipino, former Senate President Manny Villar of the Nacionalista Party and Sen. Mar Roxas of the Liberal Party-Roxas Wing.

Lim along with another detained officer, Capt. James Layug, have been featured in tarpaulins on passenger jeepneys and tricycles in Metro Manila with the slogan: “Magdalo para sa Pagbabago!”