FVR: Support for Leni Robredo ‘sincerely given,’ no strings attached

Photo from Leni Robredo media bureau

Former President Fidel V. Ramos on Thursday debunked a claim made in a newspaper report that he was set to deny his endorsement to administration vice presidential bet and Camarines Sur Rep. Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo.

In a handwritten note, Ramos said that his endorsement for Robredo was “sincerely given” and that he does not expect anything for return.

“Kindly be informed that FVR’s support to Cong. Leni Robredo as a VP candidate was sincerely given, with no expectation of rewards or favors,” Ramos said.

He also extolled the late Interior secretary Jesse Robredo as “a key stalwart” in his administration.

“The late DILG Secretary/Naga City Mayor was a good friend, tireless campaigner and model LGU official—a key stalwart of the FVR administration (1992-1998),” the former chief executive said.

Ramos’ reiteration of support for Robredo was issued following Wednesday’s The Manila Times report which claimed that his endorsement was part of Robredo camp’s “public relations spin.”

Citing a source who is said to be one of Ramos’ aides, the report said that the Robredo camp supposedly had “a ready media release and just waited for the usual photo opportunity with the former President” before releasing the PR to various media outlets.

The two leaders met last Monday, Feb. 8, a day before the official start of the campaign period.

Other leaders who also expressed support for Robredo’s vice presidential bid include House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. and Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista.