Mindanao execs rally behind GMA

DAVAO CITY — Local officials from all over Mindanao continue to rally behind President Arroyo after she apologized the other day on national televisionfor having spoken to an election official during the counting of votes in last year’s elections.

"It was an admirable act because it takes a lot of humility and a lot of guts. And for it, she does not only have my support but also that I respect her more," Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said.

The mayor said the opposition could now proceed with the legal process such as an impeachment case. But he was quick to point out that the President’s admission does not make the tape legal.

"It did not erase the fact that it was an illegally acquired piece of evidence even if the President said it was her," he said.

Sarangani Gov. Miguel Dominguez likewise said he continues to support the President, adding that it takes a considerable amount of courge for a leader to admit a mistake.

"But consequences of mistakes will have to be dealt with based on prescribed procedure. What is important is to move on as a united nation," Dominguez told The STAR.

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Vicente Emano, on the other hand, said the President still has his support in spite of her admission of a "lapse in judgement" when she talked to an election officer in last year’s elections.

North Cotabato Gov. Emmanuel Pinol said those who think that the President’s apology was not enough should bring the matter to the proper forum.

"As far as I am concerned, I support the President. And if there are people who believe that her sorry was not enough, then they should seek redress in the proper forum," Piñol added.

Camiguin Gov. Pedro Romualdo also said he is still behind Mrs. Arroyo.

"I do not find anything wrong with that conversation. She just wanted to protect her votes.There was no impropriety in it," Romualdo said.

Both Duterte and Emano also admitted having talked to the President during the elections but said she did not instruct them to manipulate the votes.

Lakas-NUCD co-secretary general and Presidential Assistant on New Government Centers Rodolfo del Rosario said the President’s admission could now give everyone the chance to move on.