Political rivals unite for Leni
By Mar S. Arguelles
Vice President Leni Robredo, the lone woman presidential contender, was euphoric upon learning that political rivals in Bicol have set aside their political agenda by being united to ensure her victory in the upcoming national election.
Robredo at the launching of BikoLeni movement on Monday, Feb. 7, said the expression of support given by political rivals is a good indicator that people are being united for a common goal and dreams for the development of the country particularly Bicol.
She said “We belong to different political parties with different beliefs and ideologies but the expression of support has given me the energy to face these challenges. This would be my biggest political battle as I decided to run as an independent candidate symbolizing that we set aside partisanship for the greater cause of our nation.”
The deluge of supporters from various political parties and the private sectors getting united is a sign that the dreams to see the road map towards progress can be achieved, she said.
BIKOLENI MOVEMENT Vice President Leni Robredo (center) flank by Noel De Luna (left) and Camarines Sur 3rd District Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr., during the launching of the BIKOLENI movement on Feb. 7 at the Summit Hotel in Naga City. De Luna is running against Bordado for the 3rd District congressional post.
“This united stand is an opportunity for us to develop the region despite party affiliations. I believe that these dreams would come through once we return the confidence of the people in the government, that is run by leaders that are clean, honest, united in helping each other in developing the country regardless of political party affiliation,” Robredo said.
She said she believes that public servants do not carry the mantle to solve problems but rather in consultation with the people they can draw upright solutions to any problem.
BikoLeni movement was initiated by Noel De Luna, a businessman and founder of the Kusog Bicolandia Partylist.
De Luna together with four other contenders is challenging incumbent 3rd District Rep. Gabriel Bordado of the Liberal Party who was also present at the launching of the movement.
In Albay, former allies now political rivals for the gubernatorial post, incumbent Gov. Al Francis of the Nacionalista Party, and political rival Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal have declared their support to Robredo.
Robredo said that in the 2016 national election she garnered 70 percent of the Bicol votes despite the fact that five of her rivals for VP post claimed to be Bicolanos.
“With the expression of support thrown by various political parties, she expects to get most of the votes from the region’s 3.9 million voters.