Former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson called for unity amid the ongoing tensions between President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte and underscored the importance of working together to achieve national growth.
Former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis ‘Manong Chavit’ Singson, dressed in a pre-Spanish colonial costume, during the Sumbingtik grand parade in Cainta, Rizal, last week. (RGarcia/Singson’s office)
In an interview on the sidelines of the Sumbingtik Festival in Cainta, Rizal last Saturday, Dec. 7, Singson maintained a neutral stance when asked about the rift between two of the country’s top officials.
“I have nothing to say about that because I supported both of them during the campaign . . . That's why I ran as an independent,” he said, though he emphasized the importance of unity, a message championed by both Marcos and Duterte when they run as a tandem in the 2022 polls.
Singson urged them to put aside their differences for the welfare of the Filipinos and to address the country’s pressing issues as this would invite investments and strengthen the economy.
Marcos and Duterte have traded barbs in the past months, with the Vice President even admitting to hire a contractor to have Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez killed if she herself gets killed.
Singson is running as an independent senatorial candidate for next year’s midterm polls, and took time to outline his plans for uplifting the country’s transport sector.
He promised to provide zero-interest loans to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, allowing them to transition to eco-friendly options like e-trikes, motorcycles, and e-jeepneys.
“I will lend to all drivers,” he said in Filipino, adding that this would be done even at the cost of personal sacrifice.
He also introduced the “Chavit 500” project, which is a universal basic income proposal designed to offer unemployed adult Filipinos P500 in monthly stipend to help alleviate their situation.
Another project that he would like to spearhead is the “VBank,” an initiative that would offer free bank accounts to Filipinos. This aims to empower those who do not have access to the country’s financial institutions.
Singson arrived at the festival, which highlights Cainta’s vibrant cultural heritage, dressed in a pre-Spanish colonial costume.
As guest of honor, the former official captured the crowd’s attention as he honored the town’s tradition and shared his vision for the country.