Thursday, February 08, 2007
Opposition senator joins administration ticket
MANILA -- Senator Edgardo Angara on Wednesday accepted the invitation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to join the administration's unity slate for the May elections.
In a press conference, Angara explained that his decision was made after several consultations with leaders and members of the Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino (LDP), who gave their "overwhelming approval" to the matter.
"I am joining the unity coalition on clear understanding that we shall concentrate state resources to vital social expenditures, principally education, health, infrastructure, agricultural modernization, job-creation, environmental protection," Angara said.
Angara joining the coalition was anti climactic as Arroyo had already endorsed his reelection bid in a discussion during the weekly roundtable forum at the Palace.
Angara believed that the coalition will adhere to good governance and will step up effort to combat corruption, which are in accordance with the program of government of LDP.
He said he will remain with the LDP even if he has joined the administration's ticket.
"I did not switch political affiliation. I shall continue to be in LDP, the only political party I have been with during my entire political career. I am joining a unity ticket where people of different opinions come together for the sake of national progress and unity," he said.
Angara said "unity for a common purpose is critical at this time for the country's future."
"Politics is deteriorating, stuck in hate and negativism which I reject. Politics should be relevant to the lives of the people and not be seen as a destructive force," he said. (CPB/Sunnex)
For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star Iloilo. (February 8, 2007 issue)
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