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Friday, March 10, 2006
Sector leaders want mayor, solon to end feud
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- If sectoral leaders in Pampanga would have their way, they want the province's third district congressman, Rey B. Aquino, and Mayor Oscar S. Rodriguez to renew their friendship and arrest the widening rift between the former allies.
Last Thursday, Archbishop Paciano Aniceto and business leader Levy P. Laus urged the two officials to put an end to their political differences and work together towards the progress of the city.
Observers anticipate a political collision between Rodriguez and Aquino, who were the best of friends prior to their mutual election in the 2004 elections, if the present hostilities between them would not be healed.
Aniceto, who celebrated his 69th birthday on Thursday, said reports of animosity between two, who are among the province's outstanding officials, saddened him.
"This is a sad reality. I know they are the best of friends. Why can't they bring back the good relationship they had?" he said.
"I pray and hope that their differences will be settled amicably and cordially because they are both sterling public servants," the archbishop added.
During the Mass, Aquino and Rodriguez sat in separate pews. Members of the media covering the event were closely watching the two if they would exchange the "sign of peace" as part of the ceremony. To everyone's surprise, they did.
After the Mass, which was also graced by President Arroyo, Laus and City Councilor Jimmy Lazatin played mediators and asked Aquino and Rodriguez to shake hands, which the two responded.
The two officials however did not issue statements to the media when asked if the handshake meant ending their feud.
Pampanga Second District Representative Juan Miguel "Mikey" Arroyo and some mayors witnessed the handshake of the duo.
Laus, who had been supportive to the administrations of Aquino and Rodriguez in the City Hall, said the two officials should set aside politics for the meantime.
"It (dispute) disturbs the peace and unity of the Fernandinos. Let us work together to uplift the people's well-being," he said. "They (Aquino and Rodriguez) should revive the old friendship and alliance and collaborate for growth and progress," he added. (ABL)
(March 10, 2006 issue)
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