How effective is Kris as Noynoy endorser?

MANILA, Philippines - The consensus among many political observers is that Kris Aquino is earning plus points for her brother Noynoy in the campaign trail. They all agree that the standard bearer of the Liberal Party has the support of her celebrity power to his advantage in the May elections.

Kris rated highest in a recent survey of celebrity endorsers that include the likes of Sharon Cuneta, Judy Ann Santos and Sarah Geronimo, among others. This translates to a confirmation of the high regard for her among the majority of the population.

Despite this high credibility rating though, or because of this credibility rating, the TV host has to contend with negative reactions she gets left and right, evidently from her brother’s political rivals. These she dismisses as inevitability during the campaign season.

“I feel the warm reception of the public wherever I go and I appreciate their response to my presence,” she said adding that negative publicity is the least of her concern.

The first sortie of the Liberal Party she joined, along with husband and basketball star James Yap, they were mobbed at the airport upon arrival and the huge turnout at the rally held at the plaza later was such a thrill for Kris that she promised to come back.

Kris has since agreed to join provincial campaign sorties on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with James keeping her company.

A couple of weeks back she joined Kuya Noy in Ilocandia, the bailiwick of the Marcoses. It was their first trip to Laoag and Vigan since Martial Law and much to their surprise the Ilocanos welcomed them with open arms.

Kris repeatedly expressed her gratitude for the warm reception. Noynoy said there is a good chance he will get enough support from Northern Ilocos to boost his candidacy.

While surveys have indicated he was the second choice of Ilocanos should elections be held today, the senator from Tarlac feels confident about getting enough numbers. “It’s our first visit here, and already I’m the second choice, which is just fine with me. I’m here to express my gratitude for the support Ilocos gave me when I ran for senator. I was No. 10 in Ilocos, better than in Pampanga where I was 12th,” said Noynoy.