Leni: VP post not for photo sessions

MANILA, Philippines - For Vice President Leni Robredo, occupying the second highest post in the land is not just about smiling and waving to the crowd and posing for photo opportunities.

Speaking before the annual convention of the Philippine Dermatological Convention yesterday, Robredo said they have been trying to change the image of the Vice President as a “spare tire” official.

“Some people think that the Office of the Vice President (OVP) exists only for cosmetic reasons,” she said.

“How many times have we heard people say, ‘Wala namang ginagawa ang Bise Presidente?’ Traditionally, the Office of the Vice President is a spare tire. A formality,” she added.

“We are redefining the OVP to change the face of poverty in the country. Hindi gawaing pa-cute ang trabaho ng Bise Presidente. Wala ako dito for photo ops.” 

Comparing herself to dermatologists, whom she said are sometimes misconstrued as all about cosmetics, she said their initiatives aimed at addressing root causes of poverty in the country.

“I’m not here because it’s fun to wave at crowds,” she said.

She cited the flagship anti-poverty program of the OVP, which seeks to strengthen collaboration between the private and public sector, specifically local government units that require specific solutions to their respective problems.