Victorio Mirafuentes Migriño (VMM) is a name that became a part of the consciousness of the people of Dauis some five or six years ago; he even figured prominently along with the names of Luciano Bongalos and Victor Bolos in the local political cauldron. He humbly gave in to requests and taunts and eventually self-eliminated his name from the roaster of frontliners in the mayoralty race, although he did not make himself scarce to the needs of his camp. That was in the year 2004. In 2007 there is no turning back. If his house in Biking is a barometer in assessing his logistical capability, in a derby that can make paupers our of millionaires overnight, then he is at the top of the totem pole. A welcome to “Victory Hill” greets his guests, before a winding private road, accentuated by fruit-bearing mango trees, that ends in a well-landscaped front lawn of what visitors call a palace, but which Vic calls his home. Vic is humility incarnate, in a status that many less privileged would anchor their braggadocio.. Soft-spoken, at times in a monotone, he soothes the ears in a language that is not obtrusive nor high-falutin. But one that makes a stranger feel at home. The interview that took place last Wednesday was sans apprehensions and free-flowing.

LMP: Being a highly successful entrepreneur abroad, what is your concern these days that brings you back to Dauis, when your presence with your family and business could be your priority?

VMM: I am a Dauisanon. Anything that happens to my hometown concerns me. Even before, I used to come once, twice, or thrice a year. At times I stay in my hometown for three months. The thing that really prompts me to keep on coming back is to see for myself how our town has progressed, especially the lives of the people. There is something that needs to be done, and I believe I could do it.

LMP: Are you ready for the kind of service you have in mind?

VMM: Yes, I am very much prepared.

LMP: How about the people? Do you think they are ready to accept any change that youmay propose? Are you also prepared to be frustrated?

VMM: The situation is better now. The people are more intelligent, and they just need the right leader to lead them. We still have to undergo many changes in ourselves, including the way we are governed. I really believe that this is the right time With God's will …perhaps I have ten more years to live…I would like to give The remaining years of my life to Dauis. It is my payback time.

LMP: One aspect of change that needs some immediate attention is about the Badjaos. Are they a part of your plan for development?

VMM: Of course. They are also human beings, just like you and I. Not just them…there are also migrants from Bais. They have found home here. They are a part of us.

LMP: One concern that has reached the local media is the allegation that there is not just one Mayor in Dauis. I myself am at a quandary how this came about. Any comment on this?

VMM: I have heard about that, but I am not privy to the truth. I have no transaction with the Municipal Hall. What I heard is that there are many Mayors because he has delegated some of his duties.

LMP: Does this mean it is all right with you to have a Mayor who is not where his constituents could see him personally?

VMM: No. For one to be an efficient Mayor of the town, one has to be there himself. Even if there are matters which could be delegated.

LMP: Do you have already your slate for the May polls?

VMM: None has been finalized so far. Many developments can still happen. Although, Vice Mayor Teodolfa Refamonte would be my running mate.

LMP: Is she not with Mayor Bongalos?

VMM: Mrs. Refamonte was never with Mayor Bongalos. They are not from the same party. She used to reside in the States before 2001. I was one of those who invited her to come back because the people need her help, and she is willing to help the best way she could.

LMP: What are your priority projects, if given the chance to serve Dauis?

VMM: Number one priority is the water problem. This has been an on-going concern that needs to be properly addressed. My father used to tell me…water is life. My second priority is on unemployment. There must be way of making people more productive.

LMP: Considering that your obsession to serve will still have to pass through the election process, are you willing to sacrifice?

VMM: My family is abroad, although my wife will coming home soon. This is already a big sacrifice. It's not easy to be separated from your loved ones. But bearing in mind my desire for the progress of Dauis, my family understands. I want the people of Dauis to know that I care for them, and I am willing to undergo all kinds of sacrifices to achieve my dream for them. I will do everything possible to make their lives better, because I love them all.

s of presstime, Victorio M. Migrino must have completed his slate for the coming election. I have been privy to the fact that countless personages in the political realm have bee-lined to his palatial home for the past months. This is a good sign of support; moreso because all of them are vehement in their declaration that he should not settle for the second slot in the municipal derby. Forever cool, seemingly unperturbed by political wrangling, he retains his composure even as others already see red. This trait is a plus factor that could give more meaning to “Victory Hill.”