The atmosphere was politically charged, although the usual campaign slogans were nowhere in sight.
Vice President Jejomar Binay breezed into town Wednesday to put in a good word for former finance secretary Margarito Teves in his planned bid for the governorship of Negros Oriental.
In a press conference, held to celebrate the 92nd birthday of former Negros Oriental Rep. Herminio Teves, Binay said Teves is recognized as a good finance officer. “Who could argue with his qualifications?”
In that press conference were Rep. George Arnaiz, Rep. Pryde Henry Teves and Dumaguete Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria, who belong to the Nationalist People’s Coalition. Rep. Teves had joined the NPC only recently, after he abandoned the Lakas CMD party of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Also in attendance were Rep. Mitos Magsaysay of Zambales, Sen. Koko Pimentel, and former San Juan Mayor JV Ejercito.
They are members of the United Nationalist Alliance, made up of officials who are not members of the Liberal Party and who are supportive of Vice President Binay.
Binay also got a vote of confidence from the political leaders present in the press conference.
Reps. Arnaiz and Teves, as well Mayor Sagarbarria, also expressed their belief that Binay would be the best choice as the next president of the Philippines.
“He’s been mayor for several terms, he’s our vice president, so he knows the problems in the Philippines,” said Rep. Arnaiz. “He knows the ins and outs of a government so I think he is very much qualified,” Arnaiz added.
Rep. Teves, for his part, said that Binay could unify the country , “one who leads by example is the one who can lead this country into greatness.”
Sagarbarria said Binay is capable, ready and is the best man for the job.
Similar views were also aired by Zambales Rep. Mitos Magsaysay, Senator Koko Pimentel, former finance secretary Margarito Teves and former San Juan City Mayor JV Ejercito.
Gary Teves said he believes Binay is a good decision maker because of his experience as a chief executive in one of the most successful cities in the Philippines. ‘He cuts across also to other sectors of the economy. He listens and he recognizes his strengths and limitations but the most importrant he makes decision,” he said.
Binay also said he is helping build homes for the families whose homes were damaged by tropical storm Sendong. (with a report from Angeline Nabua/SU Masscom intern)
