ILOILO CITY – For presidential candidate Vice President Leni Robredo, the support of the people of the city and province of Iloilo is a source of strength.
“Sa amin po, sobrang overwhelmed kami. Hindi namin ine-expect na ganito ka-grabe. Kaya nagpapasalamat po kami sa lahat ng nag-abang sa kalsada, lahat pong nag-abang sa mga pinuntahan namin. Iyon po ‘yung nagbibigay sa amin ng lakas (We are very overwhelmed. We did not expect this. We are grateful to everyone, especially the ones who waited for us along the streets. That’s what gives us strengths),” Robredo said.
Robredo and her running mate Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan were in the city and province of Iloilo Friday and Saturday, December 3 and 4.
The “KakamPink” were seen along major streets from the Iloilo Airport in Cabatuan town to Iloilo City. People sang, danced and some even cried at the sight of the vice president.
Thousands also showed up in dialogues, the bike ride, and the inauguration of the duo’s campaign headquarters.
Robredo also acknowledged the support given by political leaders, particularly Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo province and Mayor Jerry Treñas of Iloilo City. Robredo also acknowledged the support of Ilonggo Senator Franklin Drilon and former governor Arthur Defensor Sr.
“This is not easy given the current political realities. Their support spelled a lot of difference,” Robredo added.
Robredo also considered the good governance in the city and province of Iloilo an inspiration.
“Ang kwento po namin, kwento din dito sa Iloilo. Ang leadership, tinitiwala-an ng tao. Ang nakaupo ay matalino at mahusay. Talaga ang kabutihan ay dumadating (Our story is also the story of Iloilo. The leadership is trusted by the people. The officials are smart and excellent,” said Robredo.
Robredo said that the projects she did as vice president were largely modeled from the governance in the city and province of Iloilo.
Robredo recalled that before she became vice president, she brought Naga City officials to Iloilo so they could learn from the best practices that spurred growth and development.