Aquino still won't name presidential bet

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday addressed his Cabinet members and allies in Congress to set the agenda for the remaining years of his administration.

In his televised speech, Aquino said some politicians are already posturing for the elections and he has been repeatedly asked on how he can ensure that his reforms can be sustained even beyond 2016.

Aquino said he is obligated to find his successor, but he still won't anoint one.

"Sa mga nagtatanong kung sino ang magpapatuloy, baka naman po nagkakamali tayo ng tanong. Baka hindi talaga sino ang dapat nating hanapin dahil walang ibang sagot sa tanong na iyan kung hindi tayong lahat ang magpapatuloy nito," Aquino said.

The president reiterated that he has also been urged to seek a second term to guarantee that his legacy will continue. However, he shot down speculations of reelection, saying he will reveal his presidential bet at the right time.

"Darating po ang panahon para sa pagpili natin ng kandidato na magpapatuloy ng ating tuwid na landas. Sana po, hindi ako ang kandidatong iyon," the president said.

Aquino also expressed confidence that Filipinos will be able to see through inefficient and corrupt leaders.

"Tiwala po ako, maski anong panlilinlang o pagpostura, makikita ng ating mga boss kung sino ang ampaw at kung nais silang pagsamantalahan. Masusuri nila kung sino ang talagang handa silang ipaglaban," Aquino said.