The mother-in-law of vice presidential bet Senator Francis ”Chiz” Escudero declared on Monday her support for Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, who is running for president in 2016.
Cecille Ongpauco, mother of Escudero’s wife Heart Evangelista, showed up at the meet-and-greet forum of Santiago at the Bahay ng Alumni in UP Diliman, Quezon City, where the senator is expected to formally announce her presidential bid next year.
Ongpauco was also present when Escudero was formally proclaimed by Senator Grace Poe as her running mate in the 2016 elections.
“I’m here to support the candidate who’s running for the highest position… in the Philippines, Senator Miriam Santiago,” Ongpauco told reporters when asked before the start of the event. The event actually started around 4 p.m. but Santiago is scheduled to arrive at around 6 p.m.
Asked why she is supporting Santiago, Ongpauco said: “I believe Senator Miriam is the most qualified candidate who can improve and effect positive change for the betterment of the country. She’s the most qualified that’s why I’m here.”
She said she and Santiago are the “closest of friends.”
“She’s like my mentor, my hero. We’ve been close for many, many years,” Ongpauco added.
Asked if she would support other presidential candidates, Ongpauco said: “I will just support Senator Miriam Santiago. I believe she’s the most qualified who could make positive change for the betterment of Filipino people.”
Before the interview, Ongpauco requested the media not to ask her questions about other people other than Santiago.