In a multi-sectoral assembly on Tuesday, March 8, at the Provincial Sports Center in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, Vice President Leni Robredo thanked her volunteers and supporters – and encouraged them to be critical of her governance style if she’s elected President in the May 9 elections.
People from all walks of life showed their support for Robredo despite the rains. Women, youth, senior citizens, LGBTQ+ community members, religious groups, and marginalized sectors gathered, clad in various shades of pink shirts with different designs, and waved witty banners they made themselves.
Some banners had amusing messages such as: “Aatras sa takong pero hindi sa mga tanong”; “Di bale nang naka-paa wag lang malikot ang kamay”; “Sa gobyernong tapat, mga magnanakaw may katapat” and “Lugaw lang daw ang afford at least hindi dineny ng Oxford.”
Others are direct messages of support, such as “Mga inaping Pilipinong mangingisda kay VP Leni nakahanap ng kasangga,” “Sawang-sawa na kami sa roar, gusto na naming iluklok si Maria Leonor,” and “Dentist for Leni, Kabagang nyo ako.”
With these expressions of unity with her, Robredo asked her supporters not to be afraid to criticize and scrutinize her policies if she becomes President.
“Pag kami po hinalal ninyo, ang aming aasahan sa inyo ay babantayan niyo kami na pag kami po nagkamali, hindi kayo matatakot punahin kami. Dahil kung ayaw na po naming makinig sa puna, pareho nalang kami noong ating mga ayaw na klase ng politiko,” Robredo said.
Robredo wants the people to act as the check and balance of her administration, and to keeping track of the promises she made during the campaign.
“Kaya ‘yung amin pong kahilingan sa inyo tulong, hindi lang ngayong kampanya, pero pag nakaupo na kami… sana kabahagi pa din kayo ng aming pamamahala,” Robredo said.
At the rally, Robredo was greeted by drumbeats and loud cheers. The presidential candidate was taken aback by the sheer turnout of supporters and volunteers.
“Alam nyo nakakagulat kayo dahil hindi ko alam na ganito kadami yung volunteers natin dito sa Surigao del Sur kaya maraming maraming, salamat!” Robredo said.
In response to Robredo’s statement, the people chanted “Hindi kami bayad!” in reference to a recent allegation that the Vice President’s supporters were paid to attend the recent mammoth rallies.
Robredo expressed her gratitude for the initiatives and efforts of the volunteers and supporters, who attend the people’s rallies without expecting to be compensated.
Photo Credit: www.facebook.com/VPLeniRobredoPH
