DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Davao Oriental Second District Congressman Nelson Dayanghirang has denied accusations from some local politicians that he disrupted the 57th-anniversary celebration of the province.
The controversy arose after supporters of a rival group claimed that Dayanghirang’s camp prevented the youth from participating in summer sports activities.
“I am a leader who unites my people, not divides them. I did not create parallel activities during the celebration, nor did I attend since it coincided with my medical check-up in Davao City,” Dayanghirang explained.
Contrary to the allegations made by rival politicians, Dayanghirang’s allies refuted claims that players and participants in the Mutya ng Davao Oriental pageant were being sidelined.
When asked if these issues were preparations for the 2025 midterm elections, where Dayanghirang is expected to run against incumbent Governor Niño Sotero Uy, he responded, “I don’t know why they are saying that. Many barangay captains joined the events, and I did not control them.”
Despite the controversy, Piligrina Jendy Bentayao, a candidate from the municipality of Manay, was crowned Miss Davao Oriental. Interestingly, Bentayao did not represent her municipality but was instead backed by VM Farm, which funded her candidacy after the local government of Manay did not support it. The Dayanghirang family resides in Manay.
Congressman Dayanghirang emphasized the importance of unity for the continued development of Davao Oriental. “All the people of Davao Oriental are free, and it is necessary to be united for continued progress,” he said.
In response to allegations that mayors and barangay captains stopped youth and individuals from participating in the celebration, Dayanghirang reiterated his stance for unity. “I stand for unity, not the disintegration of the people,” he stated.
As the political climate in Davao Oriental heats up, residents hope that political maneuvers will not infringe on their freedom and that the province can remain united despite the tensions.
