Wow, have you been updated with the news lately? The Press has named and declared the statement of assets and liabilities and net worth of the Members of the Congress. Three in the top 20 list are Solons from Negros Occidental.

In a report, House Records Management Service Director Ricardo Bering said that undoubtedly, the highest paid athlete of the world, boxing champ, Manny Pacquiao came in first because of the many belts and world titles he has in his possession not to mention his TV endorsements which became a big factor of his billion assets.

Our very own 3rd District Representative, Cong. Albee Benitez, came in second with a declared net worth of 624,000,000.

Fourth in row was First District Lawmaker, Cong. Jules Ledesma with a total net worth of 555,000,000. He came next to Imelda Marcos who was third. That is why Assunta da Rossi never thought twice of quitting showbiz, she will make hundreds of movies before she can surpass her husband’s riches.

Jumping to number 18 is the Former Presidents’ brother in law, 5th District Rep. Iggy Arroyo who declared 137,000,922 in total assets.

There are six Congressmen in Negros, the 3 are top richest, the remaining are Gubernatorial son, Cong. Thirdy Maranon, 4th District – Lawmaker Jeffrey Ferrer who is son-in-law of Kitchie Benedicto, RSB’s daughter. The only flower among the thorns , Rep. Merciditas Alvarez, daughter of Southern Scion and Vice Governor Babes Alvarez. They would not really come far away with the first three, they also have millions in assets too.

Years back, our province’ image was “Sa Negros, ang Kwarta gina piko and gina pala. ” I really don’t believe Negros gone out of that image..who would say that with the latest SALN Congress Declaration?