His potential rival, Vice Gov. Gerardo Noveras, earlier announced he is running for governor in next year's elections.

Angara's younger sister, incumbent Aurora Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo who is on her last term, said there is a strong clamor among political leaders for the senator to run for governor.

She said the senator's candidacy would ensure the continuity of the projects she started. "Based on what they (leaders) have seen, it would take somebody like Senator Angara to expedite all the development projects in Aurora," she said.

Angara had previously denied he would seek the gubernatorial post, saying he won't settle for a local position. He added that if his brother Arthur does not stand a chance against Noveras, they would field another contender.

But since last year, the senator has been very visible in the province, inspecting his pet projects and meeting with political leaders and local officials.