In defense of Sen. Loren Legarda: PNOY, VP BINAY, other senators vouch for loren’s integrity

May 9, 2013

President Benigno “Noynoy” S. Aquino III, Vice President Jejomar Binay and several other political personalities rallied behind Senator Loren Legarda, attesting to her integrity and commitment to public service.

The outpouring of support came after black propaganda hurled against Legarda surfaced in the last leg of the 2013 campaign season, alleging anomalies in her SALN. “Team PNoy’s composition is based on a shared commitment to honesty, transparency, and accountability in public service,” said President Aquino. “Loren Legarda has never backed away from the duty of every person who works for the people, to live up to our common obligation to stand by these three basic principles of governance.” He added, “I know that our fellow citizens will recognize this and that they can separate the facts from mere rumors or opinions.”

Vice President Jejomar Binay, in turn, said the allegations are “obviously politically motivated,” and he is confident that Legarda will emerge unscathed.

Legarda has consistently held the top senatorial spot in pre-election surveys, owing to her strong track record as a legislator and public servant.

“I sympathize with Loren,” said UNA senatorial bet Richard “Dick” Gordon. “Somebody wants to be No. 1 ahead of her, is that the kind of person you want elected in the Senate?”

Other senatorial candidates from both UNA and Team PNoy expressed support for the legislator, including Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Nancy Binay, and Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, who further attested to Legarda’s “fierce commitment to issues on the environment, education and employment.”

“I urge the Filipino electorate to give Legarda a resounding vote of confidence on May 13 to shame her detractors.” said former Ambassador Roy Seneres of the OFW Family Party List.

Team PNoy Campaign Manager Senator Frank Drilon expressed outrage at the allegations, and vouched for Legarda’s strong work ethic. “As a fellow senator and friend, I have known Senator Legarda as a person of respect and integrity. She was my indefatigable Majority Floor Leader when I was Senate President during the 11th, 12th and 13th Congresses.” Drilon added “I am certain that any attempt at character assassination against her would fail in the face of her impending victory in the elections.”