MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino has told National Irrigation Administration chief Claro Maraman to solve the lack of irrigation for farmlands in the provinces, warning “non-performers will get the boot.â€
In a speech in Compostela Valley where he visited on Sunday victims of Typhoon Pablo that hit the province last year, Aquino did not mince words when he noticed that some projects were not being carried out yet.
Aquino said the irrigation for farmlands might be taking some time and recalled that he had to sack former NIA chief Antonio Nangel for failing to meet targets despite 100 percent use of the agency’s budget.
He said he was giving Maranan a chance.
“I am a simple person. You have to be true to the people, to our fellowmen, show me that really once the problem is pointed out to you, when we meet again you carry solutions with you – (that way) you earn my backing.
“If I do nothing but remind you of your shortcomings, it will be a bit crazy for me to let someone like you stay,†Aquino said.
On the other hand, he praised officials who have been working hard and delivering results.