President Aquino gets an 85

Here’s one group that has given President Benigno Aquino III a high satisfaction rating of 85 percent, after polling firms Social Weather Stations and Pulse Asia reported declining trust and satisfaction ratings for the Chief Executive.

Kaya Natin!, a nongovernment organization that advocates good governance and ethical leadership, gave Mr. Aquino a high grade when reporters sought opinions of the President’s leadership at the Balitaan sa Tinapayan media forum in Sampaloc, Manila, on Sunday.

Harvey Keh, Kaya Natin! lead convenor, said postponing the ARMM elections was a bold step taken by the President.

He said that, objectively speaking, Mr. Aquino’s administration was efficient, pointing out that response to disasters was quicker now and Pag-asa has been more efficient in issuing weather warnings.

Keh noted the Department of Budget and Management was stricter when it came to the use of the congressional Priority Development Assistance Fund, commonly known as the pork barrel.

He, however, urged Mr. Aquino to attend to the “jueteng” problem, which is a source of illicit campaign funds for many politicians.

He also hoped the freedom of information bill would be passed and corrupt customs officials would be dismissed and prosecuted.