Aquino believes in Santa Claus

MANILA, Philippines—Do you believe in Santa Claus?

President Benigno Aquino III says he does in his first YouTube WorldView Interview.

“I believe in Santa Claus. Santa Claus is perhaps the personification of people’s idea of generosity and caring,” the bachelor President said in response to a question of a seven-year-old boy, identified only as Joshua.

Aquino said that his Christmas wish is for Filipinos to care about their neighbors, brothers, sisters or even strangers.

Aquino answered questions—from Spratlys to human rights and peace—during a live interview in the popular video-sharing site Friday.

Asked about the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 being dubbed as the worst airport in the world by a travel blog, Aquino said that plans to improve it structurally and aesthetically are set to be presented to him. He agreed that the airport, named after his martyred father, former senator Benigno Aquino Jr., is a historical landmark.

On the overseas Filipino workers, Aquino said his goal is to provide job opportunities in the country for the 10 million overseas Filipinos. “We want them to be back here. To do that, there should be jobs available.”

On the issue of poverty, he said that a third of the national budget was allocated for programs to alleviate poverty.

More opportunities for growth would be the best solution for rebellions and crimes, he said.

Aquino responded to criticism that his government was under spending, saying that his administration is simply being cautious in using the people’s money.

He cited an efficient tax collection as important revenue measures of his administration.

On the environment, Aquino said his government is seriously monitoring pollution levels in the cities. He said the Asian Development Bank is set to bankroll 100,000 new electric tricycles by next year.

On the Freedom of Information Act, Aquino said that his administration is not hiding anything from the public. He said that “absolute freedom is the greatest actual imprisonment” and that raw information could cause undue concern.

On the issue of population, Aquino reiterated his support for the responsible parenthood bill, saying people need to be educated about the issue so they can make an informed decision.

Asked about a specific place or food in the Philippines that he would recommend, Aquino said that practically every region has tourist sites or food that will make the trip worthwhile.