Senator Noynoy Aquino visited Legazpi City and other places in Bicol last Sunday, October 25, 2009 and we had the chance to attend the multi-sectoral forum at St. Agnes Academy gymnasium. This is part of his presidential bid next year.

We had our lunch at Jollibee Albay hoping to catch Noynoy for the LP-Sorsogon Oathtaking Ceremony officiated by LP Deputy SecGen Henry Bacunay as per Tita Chris Ojano’s advice but the senator did not drop by. But I was fortunate to meet our fraternity brother, Mayor Jesse Robredo of Naga City (recipient of Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service, 2000) also member of the Liberal Party.

Mayor Jesse Robredo and Ronald Redito at Liberal Party Oath Taking

Senator Noynoy stayed only for a short period in the forum called “People’s Agenda for Change”. Different sectors from the Bicol region were given a few minutes to discuss problem/issues of concern. Sectors included the farmers, fisherfolks, urban poor, women, senior citizens and NGOs. Issues raised included agrarian reform, coconut levy, marine pollution, excessive mining, fish kills, illegal fishing of foreigners, disaster preparedness, education, housing and relocation.

The senator was given time to answer and to lay out his plans if ever he would be given the chance to lead the country but the broad answers sparked no enthusiasm from these various sectors because of the lack of concrete plans for their problems.

Noynoy Aquino in Legazpi City

Noynoy Aquino in Bicol 2009

As a summary, Senator Noynoy Aquino said he would need the total support of the people in order to solve the problems we are facing. It is not enough to just seat him in power and leave the rest to him. He said he will need the full support of everyone in the entire duration of presidency (if elected) to resolve the numerous problems we are facing. People should be vigilant to curb corruption in the government. Prioritization of budget will be implemented to give attention to the needs of the people.

Muntinlupa Rep. Rufino Biazon, Akbayan party-list Rep. Risa Hontiveros, Bukidnon Rep. TG Guingona and Mayor Jesse Robredo of Naga City were also present.

Jesse Robredo, Ruffy Biazon and TG Guingona

The Blogger and girl friend

Mabuting Pilipino Bus

Related articles:

Aquino gets taste of ‘mob’ treatment

Ninoy and Cory Avenue

The 2000 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service

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Maraming Salamat!

Ronald Redito

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