P-Noy to LP members: Country above self

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino yesterday reminded new members of the Liberal Party (LP) that the benefit of the country and the people is above everything else.

“As a Liberal I remind you that taking your oath is a transaction that cannot be disregarded. All members have an honorable mind, honorable voice, and above all honorable action,” Aquino told 96 new LP members during a mass oath-taking at the Mini-Convention Center, Heroes Hall in San Fernando, Pampanga.

He encouraged the LP members, led by former governor-priest Eddie “Among Ed” Panlilio, LP’s gubernatorial bet in Pampanga, to continue working together to ensure a more equipped citizenry and progressive nation.

Aquino expressed hope that the new LP members would work with the current administration to attain meaningful reforms and lasting development in the country.

He also assured the people that the government is sincere in its unyielding efforts to implement social programs for the people.

The new LP candidates in the province – from governor, congressman, mayor down to town councilor – are expected to closely work with the national government in achieving Aquino’s social contract with the people.

Prior to the oath-taking ceremonies, Aquino inspected government projects in San Fernando that include the ongoing construction of the nearby school building of the City College of San Fernando that is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

The P100-million, four-story building will accommodate college students and offer degrees in Hotel and Restaurant Management, elementary and secondary education, business administration and information technology.

San Fernando Mayor Oscar Rodriguez briefed Aquino on other projects of the local government that include the Lazatin flyover, as well as the Sagip-Ilog and Tail Dike breaching and re-channeling of Gugu Creek.

Touted as one of the oldest political parties in the country, LP was founded in January 1946 by then President Manuel Roxas, grandfather of Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II.

LP’s formation came from the “Liberal wing” of another political group, the old Nacionalista Party. – With Ric Sapnu