Aquino: Remain righteous, shun corrupt politicians

Benigno Aquino III. INQUIRER.net file photo/Cathy Miranda

MANILA, Philippines–In his New Year’s message, President Aquino urged Filipinos to “put (their) trust in each other” and remain “steadfast on the straight and righteous path” to usher in “a new and transformed Philippines.”

At the same time, the Chief Executive renewed his call for the people to be wary of politicians in the coming 2016 elections whose interests would only cause the country to revert to the old corrupt system.

“Let us remember, despite the achievements we have worked hard for, there are still those watching our every move and are waiting for an opportunity to bring us back to the old system,” Aquino said.

The President also talked at length about the achievements of his administration, from the eight public-private partnership (PPP) projects of the government, to the expanded beneficiaries of the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program, the investment upgrades by credit rating agencies, and the government’s improved response to disasters and calamities.

The President welcomed the last full year of his administration filled with optimism that his “daang matuwid” (straight path) governance reform policy has brought about a “new and transformed Philippines.”

“Indeed, by putting our trust in each other, by doing our share, and by remaining steadfast to the straight and righteous path, we have ushered in a new and transformed Philippines,” Aquino said.

“Now that we are approaching the final year of my administration, every step, every contribution becomes more crucial in our quest to create a more inclusive future. With the guidance of the Almighty, and with the help of every Filipino, I am certain that we will achieve the lasting change that we all long for,” he added.–Nikko Dizon