Lopez vs Lopez ignites in Loon

oIF cooler heads do not prevail, a faction that has wedged the politically powerful Lopez clan in Loon may escalate into a full-blown case. This as the prospect of Lopez vs Lopez flares up with the clan reportedly clawing to position two potential mayoralty aspirants. This early, the tension has become too pronounced with clan factions at bitter ends with each other, all for politics. And if allowed to drag, litigation that is now being contemplated may not be resolved with politics, the root of all the problems. In an informal talk with the Post yesterday, respected Dr. Nick Lopez said he has asked his lawyer to look for a possible case he would file against his nephew, Loon Mayor Cesar Tomas Lopez.

The reports said Mayor Lopez has earlier called for a party consensus for an official candidate last June 3. He was accordingly pushing for his brother Lloyd's endorsement to the seat he would vacate. During the gathering attended by Loon barangay captains, his uncle, Dr. Nick along with his brother, former Provincial Attorney Inocentes Lopez came ahead of Mayor Lopez. When the mayor arrived, he reportedly confronted Dr. Nick and his bother Inocentes whom he accused of pressuring his brother Lloyd Lopez to back out.

The confrontation, which was cordial turned sour with Mayor Lopez and his brother dentist hurling accusations against Dr. Nick, who was visibly embarrassed and clearly aggrieved. Inocentes, a lawyer by profession has earlier aired his desire to serve Loon and has planned along with Dr. Nick for his candidacy. In a phone interview, Atty. Lopez said he came in thinking that Mayor Lopez was on to his last term. He also said he is set for the seat knowing he has the experience, the desire and the moral ascendancy.

Aside from that, lawyer Lopez said they have already known years back that Lloyd was not running. What they did not anticipate was that the last term mayor has also plans of his own. Asked for his comment on the issue, Mayor Lopez, through telephone interview told the Post that he is still hoping that with elections still way off, they could settle the matter within the family. Rumors from the Mayor's opposite camp said there have been attempts of the mayor to kiss and make up, but the move remains unacted.

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