'Noynoy running on platform of hate'

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Benigno Aquino III is running on a “platform of hate” against the Arroyo administration to boost his bid for the presidency, Malacañang said yesterday.

Press Secretary Cerge Remonde was commenting on the accusation hurled by Aquino that President Arroyo was focused on obtaining votes than developing Mindanao as her political allies were among the primary suspects in the Maguindanao massacre.

He said Mrs. Arroyo has put in more programs and resources in Mindanao compared to the previous administrations.

“I think that (accusation) is unfair but we understand that because Senator Noynoy is running for president on a platform of hate against President Arroyo, so that’s expected in the platform that he has bared,” Remonde told the government-run Radyo ng Bayan.

He said Aquino’s campaign platform consisted mostly of criticisms.

“Senator Noynoy wants to replace President Arroyo, so we expect him to hit and hit her in the hope that by doing so, he would be able to get the votes of the Filipino people,” he said.

Remonde said millions of Filipinos living in southern Philippines have benefited from the various infrastructure projects, including roads and irrigation, as well as other social and educational programs. – Paolo Romero