Ilocano groups back Robredo’s presidential bid, cite her ‘bravery, competence’ in public service

Ilocos Sur’s capital city of Vigan comes alive on Tuesday (Feb. 8) as supporters of presidential and vice-presidential aspirants Leni Robredo and Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan joined the nationwide Grand People’s Campaign rally. (Photo courtesy of Charlie Gaston)

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — A broad alliance of supporters in Ilocos Sur province is backing the presidential candidacy of Vice President Leni Robredo, citing her “exceptional bravery” and “unrivaled competence” in public service.

At least 13 groups, led by the local chapters of Robredo’s People Council, 1SAMBAYAN, and Dapat Si Leni, joined the nationwide Grand People’s Campaign rally for Robredo-Pangilinan on Tuesday.

In a joint statement, the groups said they are supporting the presidential bid of Robredo because of her “integrity, capacity, and credibility.”

They said Robredo is “worthy to lead the country” as she had shown “passion, competence, and expertise” in implementing poverty eradication programs.

“She has the vision of ‘Gobyernong Tapat, Angat Buhay Lahat’ for the the Filipinos,” they said.

The groups also said they believe in Robredo’s stand to uphold the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea and for her bravery to seek justice for victims of human rights abuses and extra-judicial killings.

“She manifests courage in protesting against oppressive and exploitative systems in governance,” they said.

On Tuesday, the famed calesas of the heritage city of Vigan took center stage as they carried Ilocano supporters and volunteers who joined the nationwide Grand People’s Campaign for Robredo-Pangilinan.

The alliance of volunteers also marked the official start of the national election campaign period after they opened a Leni-Kiko Volunteer Center at Villa Angela in Vigan.

“In one voice, we proclaim our unwavering support for VP Leni Robredo in her bid for the Presidency. It is our most earnest desire and clamor that [Vice President] Leni be the President of the Republic of the Philippines in 2022,” they said.

Robredo, during a presidential forum organized by the Rotary Club of Vigan City last January 20, said that all will be part of progress and development if she wins her presidential bid.

In Ilocos Norte province, volunteers supporting Robredo and her running mate, Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, on Tuesday said they are choosing Robredo due to the “values that she espouses and demonstrates in the day-to-day administration of her duties as a public servant, the very same values that uphold and defend the integrity of our democracy.”

“We choose VP Leni and her running mate, Sen. Kiko, because we want leaders who have the courage to fight for truth, honesty, and integrity at a time of widespread lying, deceit, and corruption,” they said in a separate statement.

The volunteer group said that they are endorsing Robredo’s presidential bid as she has been visible during the most difficult times and even “over-delivered.”

“To support VP Leni or another candidate other than the one traditionally supported by Ilocandia is considered traitorous. But to remain silent in the face of blatant corruption and deceit is a disservice to the whole country,” they said. INQ

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