GMA can run for lower post, say Senate allies

MANILA, Philippines - Two pro-administration senators see no legal obstacle for President Arroyo to run for Congress in next year’s elections.

Sen. Joker Arroyo and Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago believe that Mrs. Arroyo can run for another elective office, except the presidency.

However, Senator Arroyo said it “would be very demeaning” for Mrs. Arroyo to seek a post lower than the presidency. 

“Very demeaning,” he said. “Why should you run? I  agree with that 100 percent. Why run when you have already become president?”

On the other hand, Santiago said running for Congress and aiming to become speaker should not be seen as a demotion for Mrs. Arroyo.

“So from the head of the executive branch, she will be head of at least half of the legislative branch of government which is not such a demotion, she just changed the branch of government she is serving,” she said.

Speaking over radio station dzBB, Senator Arroyo said no law prevents Mrs. Arroyo from seeking a seat in the House of Representatives.

“She can run for any position,” he said.

“There is no provision. Bakit ba tayo nag aaksaya ng panahon discussing her when she is not running for president. There is no prohibition, she can run.” 

Senator Arroyo criticized presidential aspirants for using Mrs. Arroyo as a “stepping board” to launch their presidential bids. 

“I am wondering why the candidates, except (Defense Secretary) Gilbert (Teodoro), are concentrated on attacking her,” he said.

“They are wasting time hitting and hitting her when she is not seeking re-election. Instead, they should hit each other (over issues).”

Speaking on the same radio program, Santiago said she believes Mrs. Arroyo is geared to run for a congressional seat representing Lubao, Pampanga, and that she plans to become the next speaker of the House of Representatives.

“I am afraid there is no other reason,” she said.

“What other possible reason can you have for going so many times to a certain municipality when you are already supported by the greater majority of the people for being a native daughter.

“I am afraid that all roads lead to Lubao Pampanga, as far as President Arroyo is concerned.” – Christina Mendez