Tricycle drivers urge GMA to run

Disappointed that President Arroyo did not declare her political plans for next year during her State-of-the-Nation Address yesterday, a group of tricycle drivers reiterated its appeal for her to reconsider her earlier decision withdrawing from next year’s presidential race.

In a manifesto submitted to Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay, the two million-strong Aktibong Alyansa ng Tricycle Operators at Drivers Association sa Pilipinas (AA NG TODAPIL), said Mrs. Arroyo "is the best person for the job of being the country’s chief executive."

"We call on President Arroyo to reconsider her decision not to run in the 2004 presidential election. We believe she’s still the best choice to lead the country for more progress," the group’s leader Romeo Flores said.

The group vowed to support Mrs. Arroyo against any moves to destabilize the administration.

According to Flores, Mrs. Arroyo is the only person who has shown capability and experience in running the country. The group said that among the known presidential hopefuls, Mrs. Arroyo is still the best choice.

Flores said the continuity of the administration’s reforms should be sustained. "Who will continue your programs you have made for the benefit of the Filipino people if you are not in the government?" the group asked Mrs. Arroyo.

For his part, Pichay said he had asked the group to be more patient and allow Mrs. Arroyo to decide for herself.

"Let us give room for the President to decide on the matter. But we will give your manifesto to her for consideration," Pichay told the group.

Mrs. Arroyo surprised many critics and allies when she announced on Dec. 30, 2002 that she was withdrawing from the 2004 presidential elections.

On the other hand, Pichay, as chairman of the House committee on national defense, urged the tricycle drivers group to be the "eyes and ears" of the government in the campaign against crime and terrorism.

"I asked you to help and support the government’s campaign by reporting to the Philippine National Police or to your respective barangay officials any suspicious activities in your area," Pichay said.