Aquino says he’ll meet with Escudero next

After discussing his reform program with Senator Grace Poe, President Benigno Aquino III is set to meet with another potential presidential candidate, his friend Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero.

“Hahanapin ko rin ‘yung kumpare kong si Chiz Escudero next week, kailangan ko rin naman siyang makausap (I’ll seek my buddy Chiz Escudero next week. I also need to talk to him),” said Aquino during an interview in Iloilo.

Both Poe and Escudero are being eyed by various groups as strong contenders in the 2016 elections. Poe has been ranking high in election surveys, placing second to Vice President Jejomar Binay. Escudero, on the other hand, said he might run for vice president.

READ: I’ve never been part of Liberal Party–Escudero

LP stalwart Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, despite enjoying the support of Aquino and his party, has not been doing well. Critics speculate that it is the reason why Aquino has yet to announce the Liberal Party’s standard bearer.

Some administration allies have been exploring the possibility of a Poe-Roxas tandem or a Poe-Escudero tandem.

READ: Administration allies batting for Poe-Roxas or Poe-Escudero

Based on the transcript made available to media, Aquino said his meeting with Poe last Wednesday revolved around the administration’s programs and how it can be continued by his predecessor.

“Parang nagkaliwanagan kami ‘nung mga kung paano ba ‘yung perspective (We were able to clarify our perspectives),” Aquino said.

READ: Aquino, Poe meet again

“Nagkikita kami eye-to-eye kung ano ba ang dapat mangyari, which is the continuance of the current governance (We were able to see eye-to-eye on what should happen next, which is the continuance of the current governance),” he added.

Nevertheless, Aquino reiterated that his discussion with Poe is “still a work in progress.”

He said once he finishes the process of searching for a standard bearer, he will announce his decision. He hopes to give his announcement after his State of the Nation Address in July.

“I hope I will be able to have wrapped up all of these discussions and made my position clear to all parties concerned,” the President said.