Aquino praises NGOs

President Benigno Aquino III. AFP FILE PHOTO

After over two years in power, President Benigno Aquino has been struck by this realization: when you’re with the opposition, it’s easy to nitpick, but very hard to propose solutions.

Addressing the Caucus of Development NGO Network (Code NGO), the President on Thursday praised nongovernment organizations (NGOs) for keeping the spirit of Edsa People Power I, and serving as  a “pillar for good governance” in the administration.

“You’re our eyes against anomalies; ears for our country’s problems, and the voice of our marginalized sectors. In fact, some government officials came from your sector,” he said at the national congress of Code NGO in SM City, Quezon City. The speech was aired over government-run radio.

Mr. Aquino then acknowledged Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman, and Secretary Teresita Deles, presidential adviser on the peace process, and cited their significant contributions to the government.

Years ago, the Code NGO was embroiled in a controversy over the sale of P1.8 billion in Poverty Eradication and Alleviation Certificate (PEACe) Bonds. Its officials said the transaction was legal and transparent.

“I have just one wish: when you engage in dialogue let’s make sure we’re contributing sensible points, instead of making brownie points like other people. We can’t keep on criticizing, yet keep our mouth shut when it comes to solving problems,” he said.