Binay postpones speech, heads to typhoon-hit Cagayan, Isabela

Vice President Jejomar Binay. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Vice President Jejomar Binay on Monday decided to cancel his scheduled 15-minute address to clear his name against corruption charges to instead go to provinces hit by typhoon “Luis” (international name: Kalmaegi).

“Binay flew to Cagayan this morning to personally assess the damage caused by typhoon “Luis.” After his planned visit to towns in Cagayan, the Vice President is scheduled to visit Isabela,” his office said in a statement.

“The Vice President thinks that while there is an appropriate time to respond to the issues, the need to alleviate the suffering of typhoon survivors cannot wait,” it said.

Binay’s spokesperson, Cavite governor Jonvic Remulla told Radyo Inquirer 990AM that the Vice President decided to postpone the anticipated speech because he wanted to be with the residents of Isabela, which is the hometown of his mother.

His live national address has been rescheduled for Wednesday or Thursday.

Remulla said Binay thought the speech could be postponed but not the help needed by Filipinos, especially since President Benigno Aquino III is on an official trip in Europe.

“The Vice President wants to reassure the people of Cagayan and Isabela that their government is ready to assist them,” Binay’s office said.

Binay was expected to address allegations of corruption in the construction of the Makati City Hall Building II where had reportedly received kickbacks.

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Originally posted: 9:09 am | Monday, September 15th, 2014