Even if Vice President Noli de Castro joins the Arroyo administration-backed Lakas-Kampi Christian-Muslim Democrats, Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Bayani Fernando said over the weekend that he is confident the party will still choose him as its standard bearer for the 2010 presidential elections.

In an interview aired over radio DZBB, Fernando claimed his seniority and track record of being a Lakas-CMD member are enough reasons for the party to choose him over De Castro or even Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro who both signified their intention to seek the highest post in the land.

"Inaasahan kong ako pa rin ang susuportahan ng partido dahil wala akong nakikitang makatwirang dahilan upang tanggihan nila ako kahit pa sa napapabalitang pagsanib sa amin ni Vice President. Maski sa pinakahuling survey, mas mataas ang nakuha kong ratings kay Secretary Teodoro," he said.

Fernando added that he will release more infomercials and political advertisements at his expense to show the administration that he is a serious contender.

"Dadamihan ko pa ho ang mga infomercials ko nang makita nila na seryoso po akong contender sa nalalapit na election," he said, adding that no MMDA funds will be used in this purpose.

Should Lakas-Kampi-CMD choose another candidate, Fernando said he is still bent on pursuing his dream of celebrating his birthday next year in Malacañang.

"Hinihintay ko lang ang desisyon ng partido pero anuman ang mangyari, tutuloy pa rin ako sa pagtakbo," he added.