Commentary: Can PGMA ignore the clamor of her "kabalens"?
Tacloban City (November 30) -- Watching the live coverage over NBN 4 on Saturday, of the pleadings of the Pampanga stalwarts during their audience with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, one wonders whether the compassionate mother and leader that she is, she would have the heart not to heed.
A contingent of over 200 mayors, vice mayors, provincial board members and barangay chairmen together with incumbent Congressman for the second district of Pampanga Juan Miguel Arroyo, called on the President to run for the second district of Pampanga, several of who even jokingly threatened her that they will not leave until she says 'Yes'.
Pampanga League of Municipalities president Mayor Dennis Pineda, who is on his third term, told President Arroyo that he will not run for any position in the coming elections so that he could devote his time to helping the President win the elections in the second district of Pampanga.
Congressman Mikey Arroyo declared his willingness to forego his seeking for his third term in favor of his mother.
"My dear mother, in your decision-making, my sentiments must be taken as inconsequential. My political future must be brought to the back seat because as public servants, we have sworn to give our all to our country," he said in his speech, after the mayors and barangay chairmen took turns in convincing the President to run.
"Madame President, I believe that the best service I can give to my constituents, whom I've grown to love so much, is urging you not to deny them the privilege of being represented by your person," Congressman Mikey said.
The congressman noted the steady stream of farmers, fisherfolk, businessmen, investors and medium-scale entrepreneurs trooping to the Palace "to express their desire that they be given the privilege of being represented by... a stateswoman with the stature of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo."
"This, Madame President, my mother, will be the best gift of gratitude you'll be giving them for all their support not only to you, to me, but our ancestors as well," he said.
The mayors and barangay captains volunteered to go to the Commission on Elections to file President Arroyo's certificate of candidacy, in the event that she decides to heed their clamor.
Meanwhile, University of the Philippines professor Randy David who earlier declared that he will run against the President in case she decides to run, has reportedly ditched his plan allegedly "in protest of a lopsided fight." (PIA 8) [top]
