Sen.Villar unfazed by Noynoy's entry

CEBU, Philippines - Top presidential aspirant Senator Manuel “Manny” Villar is unfazed by the entry of Senator Noynoy Aquino to the presidential race.

Aquino formally announced the other day that he is running for president next year to continue the legacy of his parents.

“That is a welcome development,” Villar said in an interview over dyHP yesterday morning.

Villar said it is normal that some aspirants would quit the race, referring to Senator Mar Roxas, who set aside his presidential ambitions in favor of Aquino, a partymate.

During his visit to Cebu, Villar predicted that only three candidates will eventually compete for the country’s top post.

“Marami talaga ang tatakbong presidente sa ngayon kasi malayo pa ang eleksyon. Pero asahan mo pag malapit na ang eleksyon, tatlo na lang ang matitira at siguradong isa ako doon,” Villar said.

Villar further said the Nacionalista Party, which he chairs, has solutions to the current difficulties faced by the country.

Villar, who was the former Senate president and House Speaker, said he has been consistent on his stand on issues that affect the public.

He said he has never failed to address concerns of the public that were ignored by the government such as issues concerning OFWs. His program, “Helpline,” has continuously helped many OFWs with employment problems.

“It is very consoling when you see OFWs smile and really happy about how Helpline has done for them,” Villar said. — Mitchelle L. Palaunsanon/LPM (FREEMAN NEWS)