By Liwliwa Malabed
For the most part of his life, Noynoy Aquino remained low-key. Even after the nationwide clamor for his presidency bid in the 2010 elections, he kept his simple demeanor. A seemingly reluctant messiah at first, he now embraces his role: to change the face of politics in the country and, as hinted by Time Magazine, to “save the Philippines.”
For the most part of his life, Noynoy Aquino remained low-key. Even after the nationwide clamor for his presidency bid in the 2010 elections, he kept his simple demeanor. A seemingly reluctant messiah at first, he now embraces his role: to change the face of politics in the country and, as hinted by Time Magazine, to “save the Philippines.”
Noynoy Aquino, or Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III, is the only son of two icons of democracy: former Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. and former President Cory Aquino. He graduated from Ateneo de Manila University with a degree in economics and worked in the sales and advertising department of Nike and Mondragon Philippines before joining the family business.
A member of the Liberal Party, Noynoy served 3 terms in congress from 1998 to 2007 representing the 2nd District of Tarlac. He served in the following committees: Civil, Political & Human Rights; Public Order & Security; Transportation & Communications; Agriculture; Banks & Financial Intermediaries; Peoples’ Participation; Suffrage & Electoral Reforms; Appropriations; Natural Resources; Trade & Industry; Good Government; Inter-Parliamentary Relations & Diplomacy; Energy; and Export Promotion.
In 2007, he ran for the Senate and placed 6th in the race. As a senator, he pushed for reform with bills on accountability in government allocation and spending but none of the bills were passed. He was and is repeatedly criticized for his unsuccessful legislative initiatives but the voting public appears to ignore this and focus instead on his sincerity to fight corruption and poverty. This was apparent in his strong performance in surveys.
Noynoy offers a humble brand of politics with the guarantee of Aquino integrity. During his campaign, he promised his administration will implement the proper collection of taxes, increase the ranks of the middle class through micro financing, and revitalize the economy. His government will make health and education accessible to everyone while upholding peace and environmental preservation. His promise, “Hindi ako magnanakaw,” as conveyed by his campaign ads, might just be what the Filipino people need.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noynoy_Aquino
http://www.tuloypnoy.com/?page_id=13
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1982219-3,00.html#ixzz0p9POVbRM