At least 12 governors from the Visayas and its neighboring regions who belong to the Lakas-Kampi-CMD vowed Friday to translate their support into votes to ensure the victory of the administration party’s standard bearer Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. in the forthcoming May 10 elections despite his weak standing in the past opinion surveys.

In a press conference at the Linden Suites in Mandaluyong City, the governors from the Visayas region also showed a manifesto bearing their signatures to express their unwavering support to the candidacy of Teodoro, 45. “We believe in his vision, in his youthful dynamism and being the symbol of integrity, competence and efficiency,” Bohol Governor Eric Aumentado said.

Aumentado said that Teodoro, also known as Gibo, inspired his constituents in his declaration that he wanted to unite the nation, a long-standing dream of the Visayans.

Among those who attended the press conference were Governors Felipe Nava of Guimaras, Miguel “Migz” Dominguez of Saranggani, Carlito Marquez of Aklan, and Mila Tan of Samar province. Also present were Governors Bong Carreon of Marinduque and Enrique “Tet” Garcia; and Buluan Vice Mayor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu, who is seeking the gubernatorial post of Maguindanao under Lakas party.

Other signatories of the manifesto who failed to make it to the media conference were Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, Antique Gov. Sally Perez, Siquijor Gov. Orlando Fua and Eastern Samar Gov. Ben Evardone.

The Bohol governor also cited the leadership of Teodoro with his role in the Maguindanao problem, particularly the massacre incident when 57 persons — 30 of the mediamen — were killed last November 23.

Teodoro was quick to dismember Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr. and his son, Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. from the Lakas-Kampi CMD after they were implicated in the massacre. Also, Teodoro, who is Lakas chairman, rushed to the side of Buluan Vice Mayor Esmail “Toto” Mangudadatu to accompany him to file his certificate of candidacy despite brewing tension in Maguindanao and its neighboring areas resulting from the incident.