Senators Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. AP FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Detained Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. described President Aquino’s state of the nation address (Sona) Monday as the “most decent” since the President assumed office in 2010.
“Habang maraming mga importanteng paksa ang hindi nabanggit at natugunan sa Sona, I feel that this was his most decent,” Revilla said in a statement sent by his office on Tuesday.
(Though there were many important issues that were not mentioned and addressed during the Sona, I feel that this was his most decent.)
Revilla is detained at the Camp Crame for plunder and graft charges in connection with the pork barrel scam.
“Pinili niya na sumentro sa mga programa at proyekto sa halip na magpa-macho, mamulitika, at magpatutsada,” he said.
(He chose to focus on his programs and projects, than to pad his image, politicize issues, and attack his opponents.)
If Aquino had shown this kind of attitude since his assumption in office, then Revilla said the President would have long united the country and had given more attention to the plight of every Filipino.
“Mas marami sana siyang nagawa,” said the senator.
(He could have done more.)
“His being emotional shows this realization,” Revilla added.
Aquino’s report to the nation also received commendation from Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada, who is also detained in Camp Crame for the same offense like Revilla.
“PNoy (Aquino) spent much of his SONA in enumerating completed projects and accomplishments. These are all laudable and beneficial for the people. Truly, it can be said to be an “Ulat sa Bayan,” Estrada said in a separate statement Monday night.
“Though the past year of the administration has been rocked by numerous controversies, calamities and early politicking, we must give credit to the Aquino government for steering the Philippine economy into becoming one of the region’s most resilient and robust,” he said.
Estrada said he just hoped that the President had given recognition to overseas Filipino workers and their “potent contribution to the economy.”
It was also quite glaring that the Freedom of Information bill was left out amidst the clamor of the general public for greater accountability and transparency in the government, he said.
“I join the people in wishing our President to succeed and to realize his promises to the people, especially during the remaining two years of his term,” Estrada added.
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