Loren: I dont need a husband to run in 2010

MANILA, Philippines – Sen. Loren Legarda said yesterday that she does not need a husband in case she runs for and wins the presidency in 2010.

Legarda made the declaration in an interview yesterday as she pondered on her blessings during her 48th birthday celebration at the Senate last Monday.

Although she claims that she remains undecided over 2010, Legarda seemed determined to give the presidency a try. “I don’t need an FG (in 2010),” Legarda said, referring to a presidential male spouse addressed as First Gentleman.

She said having a husband has its benefits and pitfalls. She hemmed and hawed when asked to compare herself with President Arroyo, but merely retorted, this “depends on every person’s situation.”

The President’s spouse, First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, figured in a number of controversies, including those involving government deals and appointments.

Legarda said she is happy enough with her two sons but did not mention the name of her former husband, beleaguered former Batangas governor Antonio Leviste.  

During the May 2007 senatorial campaign, Legarda, who has survived two failed marriages, felt very much accomplished after beating all winning senators to number one.  

The former governor is currently undergoing a murder trial at the Makati Regional Trial Court for the killing of his former associate.

Legarda was very happy that she was able to run in the May 2007 campaign “without a significant other,” the first time she did so since she became a politician.

She took care of everything, virtually running the campaign on her own with the help of friends and contributors.

“I will accept whatever comes my way… I have received so many blessings in my life (which) are more than what I expected. I’d just like to share my wealth – my wealth of ideas, my wealth of talent,” she said.

During the plenary session, Legarda welcomed debates with Sen. Richard Gordon whom she described as “a very articulate presidentiable in 2010,” apparently expecting to see the fellow senator in the presidential race.

She marked her 48th birthday with the signing of MOAs with the Philippine Trade Foundation and Management Association of the Philippines, Agribusiness, and Countryside Development Foundation Inc., Department of Education and Gruppo Technico International.

The MOA provides for cooperation between the parties for the planting of trees, with Luntiang Pilipinas Foundation providing the seeds and saplings for “The Projects.”