Robredo: Politics not about perks, special treatment

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Leni Robredo said that politics was “not about gaining perks or receiving special treatment,” but rather about finding on the ground solutions that could empower the poorest of the poor.

In a speech delivered during the closing ceremonies of the 2019 Asian Association of Public Administration Annual Conference at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde on Friday, Robredo reminded public policy and government workers that they should always strive to sow seeds of cooperation, not hatred and division.

‘Remain hopeful’

Robredo, who chairs the opposition Liberal Party, also asked Filipinos to “remain hopeful and vigilant” in order to ensure genuine representation.

“The success of any democratic process lies in its credibility. This is why every nation, here in Asia or in other parts of the world, must ensure the integrity of its electoral process. We remain hopeful and vigilant so that future elections will usher in genuine representation for our people,” Robredo said.

The Liberal Party, which fielded eight senatorial candidates during the recently concluded midterm elections, failed to secure a seat in the Senate.

However, despite the overwhelming loss, Robredo noted that the polls had provided “an opportunity for us to understand why people vote the way they do and where we are as a nation.”

Robredo said it was important for all public servants to understand the electorate’s dreams, as well as their nightmares. She also asked those in public service to set aside political divides “during these difficult times.”