With less than two years left in P-Noy’s term, what else would you like him to do?

It was hard to do this article mainly because the people I texted and called hesitated to give their suggestions to the President of the Republic of the Philippines. But all public servants, in wanting to give the best possible service to their constituents, would be happy to hear from their “bosses” what else can be done for the country. After all, it is we who help elect them to their positions — from the president down to the barangay councilors. It is every citizen’s right to praise, criticize constructively and suggest what else can be done to make the system work positively for our country. Informing our elected officials and appointed officials in government what our needs are can greatly help them succeed in serving the people. Six hundred eighty-three days are precious to those who want to make a positive difference in our countrymen’s lives.

With 683 days to go before our President steps down from office, I asked some personalities: What else would you want P-Noy to accomplish?

Atty. Abigail Valte, deputy presidential spokesperson, Office of the President

As a lawyer and citizen I would like President Aquino to continue to do more for judicial reform in his remaining 683 days in office. Prolonged trials, equal access to good lawyers for the poor and the cleanup of corrupt judges and prosecutors are some problem areas that could use more improvement. At the end of it all, our people will benefit from knowing that they can place their trust in our judiciary.

Rep. Miro S. Quimbo, Marikina City, 2nd District

I want the President to finish the difficult reforms he started and to ensure they become permanent. The far-ranging reforms on governance and socio-economic policies have become the bedrock of our thriving society today. Before he finishes his term, I expect the President to undertake steps to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the government’s programs and projects so all gains far so made will truly benefit all Filipinos, even the generations to come. I would also want the President to continue with the massive infrastructure projects and social service programs, which today reinforce the country’s progress towards inclusive growth. The President has achieved what he set out to do. The reforms are in place, good governance is now inculcated in the public system and consciousness of the citizenry, and the luster of the Philippines as Asia’s economic hub has been restored.

It would be great also if he finds a life partner before his term ends.

Atty. Harry Roque

He should  punish those behind extralegal killings including those responsible for the Ampatuan massacre, Gerry Ortega’s murder, the Nilo Baculo killing and the Evangelista torture case; investigate culpability of those close to him in the pork barrel scam; restore the integrity of Comelec by appointing a competent and credible Comelec chair and ending automated “Garci” (fraud); ensuring wider distribution of economic gains; and win in the UNCLOS arbitration.

Jim Ayala, founder and CEO, Hybrid Social Solutions

Continue to build hard and soft infrastructures for inclusive growth, so that rural areas will have access  to input they need to develop and the ability to participate in the country’s economic growth.

Pacita “Chit” Juan, president, Women’s Business Council of the Philippines

I would like the President to promote women empowerment through business and to mainstream diversity and inclusion so we can bring back our women OFWs to start businesses in the country. These mothers are so needed by their children and husbands so families can be reunited and this can bring about social change.

Argee Guevarra, lawyer, Anti-Pork Barrel advocate

P-Noy’s slogan “Tuwid na Daan” now sounds like a hollow slogan, much like a road paved with carabao dung in light of the pork barrel scam. P-Noy failed to measure up to public expectations that he would overhaul the system of governance. While he still carves out popularity for himself among our people who are grateful for the heroism of his parents, this reflected, if not residual, public approval  should translate to a mandate to cleanse government of the corrupt, and he should begin by firing his KKK. It’s crunch time for P-Noy to fulfill his father’s sense of duty immortalized in Ninoy’s last words that “the Filipino is worth dying for.” P-Noy has the last 683 days to show a legacy that will rise above his current “Noynoying” presidency.

Atty. Lorna Patajo Kapunan

Here’s my wish list for P-Noy:

1. No selective justice on PDAF favoring his Kaklase, Kabarilan and Kabarkada (KKK)

2. Account for DAP releases

3. Revamp the Cabinet to remove non-performers

4. Regulate monopolies/price fixing/manipulation of public utilities power rates, gasoline, water, electricity

5. Consumer protection against price fluctuations in basic commodities

6. Food/rice sufficiency

7. Curb rising criminality — make our streets/homes safe

8. Revamp Comelec. Clean up/replace PCOS machines to make election process credible

9. Ban political dynasties

10. Tax the 10 percent who control 90 percent of our economy (not the 90 percent who share the 10 percent)

11. Remove the hoodlums in robes

12. Fill up all vacancies in the judiciary

13. Incentives for the manufacturing sector to stimulate the economy and create jobs

14. More schools, roads, infrastructure

15. Fewer lawyers (just kidding).