22/05/2023
Ang bagong mukha ng bagong orani
Jon Arizapa, a man to watch,
pushes Orani for a change
BY MAR T SUPNAD
5/1
ORANI, Bataan- Businessman Jon Arizapa is an optimistic person who literally believes that nothing is imposible if you have the perseverance and political will to do it.
Came from a poor family in barangay Mulawin who rises from poverty to wealth, and is now a “force to reckon with,” Jon Arizapa was in fact, not reluctant and even proud in divulging his once lamentable “open book” true-to-life story to the public… being a former janitor, waiter, trike driver, construction worker, mechanic, among others.
“Nag apply pa nga akong bus conductor, pero di ako tinanggap ng Panther Bus,” (I had once applied for bus conductor in Panther bus but was not accepted), recalled Arizapa, as he hosted lunch with this writer and few selected friends, including barangay captain Marvin dela Cruz and two police officials, in his resort in Mulawin.
Some describe Arizapa as a “king maker” for having supported financially and morally a number of candidates for local positions who have become successful in their political career.
Engages successfully in construction business, Arizapa is now toying the idea, if not bent, of trying the throw his hat into political arena in this town which he describes as “lagging behind” in terms of economic development from other towns.
A former Sangguniang Kabataan president, Arizapa wanted to save his town mates from further sinking into despair brought about by lack of tangible economic progress.
“Labag man sa kalooban ko (ang pumasok sa politika) at ayaw din ng pamilya ko pero gusto kong sagipin ang mga mahihirap na kababayan ko,” (Though it is against my will
to enter politics and my family does not want it, but I want to help my poor townmates from poverty), pointed out Arizapa.
“ In fact,” Arizapa pointed out, “I can survive and live a luxury life without entering politics,” he averred.
A close political ally of the Garcias and the Romans, Arizapa lamented that the people of Orani have been sick and tired of being poor.
“Nagkukulang man ang mga ibang politiko na mga kaibigan din natin dito pero sisikapin nating pupunoan ito para sa ikabubuti ng taumbayan,” added Arizapa.
Arizapa is a “ frank and straight to the point person” but is generous to the needy who have no other persons to turn to.”
—
Businessman Jon Arizapa.
