‘Surprised’ Binay camp: ‘We expected a bigger decline’ in his rating

By: Frances Mangosing - 10 years ago

Vice President Jejomar Binay. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Amid the distinct dip in Vice President Jejomar Binay’s presidential voter preference rating, his camp was relieved that the decline was not as big as they had expected.

“Given the very challenging and rough times that the Vice President faced in the past weeks, we expected a bigger decline–but the latest survey results are a surprise for us,” said Toby Tiangco, United Nationalist Alliance’s interim president, in a statement on Monday.

Binay’s rating dropped 10 points in Pulse Asia’s survey among 1,200 respondents conducted early September to 31 percent from 41 percent last June. He, however, continued to lead other possible presidential aspirants.

The latest survey coincided with the Senate investigation on the allegedly overpriced Makati City Hall parking building.

“Sobrang tindi ng atake at paninira, pero sa taumbayan, naniniwala silang si Vice President Jejomar Binay pa rin ang makakatugon sa problema nila,” Tiangco said.

(They have been relentless in their attacks, but the people still believe that Vice President Jejomar Binay will still be the one to respond to their problems.)

Tiangco also said that they expect further attacks but assured that Binay is ready to face the citizens and continue his job.

“The public is aware that the allegations against the Vice President are part of the modus of the Administration allies to discredit him and his family,” Tiangco said.

The Palace had earlier refused to comment on the latest poll survey, saying that they were focused on implementing reforms.

“Vice President Binay will remain focused on his job, fully committed to assisting distressed OFWs, provide shelter to those who aspire to have their own homes, and continue to improve his performance by serving the Filipino people,” Tiangco said.