By I. Inojales | 12:02 AM June 28, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Former Maribojoc Mayor and retired public servant Leoncio “Jun” Evasco Jr. has dismissed speculation about a possible gubernatorial bid, saying he no longer intends to seek the province’s highest elective post.
In a statement released Sunday, Evasco said he has already devoted a significant part of his life to public service and believes it is time for younger leaders to take on the responsibility of governing the province.
“Wa nako nangandoy o naghunahuna pa nga modagan pagka Gobernador sa Bohol,” Evasco said.
He added that the opportunity to lead the province should be given to younger Boholanos with a proven track record of hard work, integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to serving the poor over personal interests.
Despite ruling out a gubernatorial run, Evasco expressed gratitude to Boholanos who have continued to express confidence in his leadership.
“Sa pagka tinuod dako ang akong kalipay nga bisan wala na ko magpirmi sa Bohol, aduna pa gihapoy mga igsoong Bol-anon nga nagpadayag sa ilang pagsalig ug paghandum sa akong kapasidad isip Gobernador sa Bohol,” he said.
Evasco said he considers the public’s trust a debt of gratitude and thanked God for the continued confidence shown to him.
He also addressed recent social media posts suggesting he should run for governor, saying he could not understand why he was being attacked when he had never publicly expressed any intention to seek the position.
“Wa man ko magpadayag sa akong kagustohan, labaw sa tanan wa man pod ko manghilabot nimo,” he said.
In the same statement, Evasco criticized an unnamed lawyer whom he accused of attacking him online. He suggested the criticism may have been motivated either by the summer heat or by payment from others.
“Atorni, ang akong tambag nimo maligo ka sa dagat kong ang nagtulak sa imong pagpangdaot sa ako bunga lang na sa kainit sa panahon,” Evasco said.
He further alleged that if the attacks were paid for, it would only confirm allegations of being “bayaran media” in Bohol, adding that such actions only bring embarrassment to the local media community.
Evasco also questioned the timing of the attacks, saying there were no indications that the current administration intended to hold elections in 2028, before ending his statement with thanks.
The statement was signed by Leoncio Evasco Jr., identifying himself as a retiree.
