No fireworks at vice presidential debate

MANILA,Philippines - It was their first chance for a face off but there were no fireworks in Sunday night’s forum of vice presidential candidates.

The candidates focused on their strengths and weaknesses in their answers to questions during the forum.

Senators Manuel Roxas II and Loren Legarda, actor Edu Manzano, Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay, former Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Bayani Fernando, Ang Kapatiran bet and lawyer Dominador Chipeco Jr., broadcaster Jay Sonza and former Securities and Exchange Commission chairman Perfecto Yasay Jr. faced off at GMA 7’s “Isang Tanong” forum but no mudslinging ensued.

Even Binay and Fernando, who had been at odds, displayed civility to each other.

Roxas said his integrity is his biggest asset because his name has never been tarnished by corruption.

At this, Legarda asked if his family or that of LP standard- bearer Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III has subjected its lands to the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.

Roxas replied yes, adding that they have always abided by the laws of the land.

Legarda was asked why she had been shifting political alliances and “changing like the climate.”

She replied that she had shifted to another party only once and that democracy allows officials to make a stand on what he or she thinks is right.

Legarda said nature and environment are her main concern and that she need not be vice president to push for her advocacies. “I live it, I breath it,” Legarda said, referring to her commitment to protect the environment.

The others generally were asked about their poor ratings in the surveys and how they could possibly catch up in the race.

Binay and Fernando said they were proud of their accomplishments as local chief executives and that they had displayed enough political will to make things happen in their respective jurisdictions.

Fernando, a former Marikina City mayor, stressed he would be able to inspire people to do right if elected because he has had enough achievements and examples to show them.

Binay, meanwhile, defended his family members’ decision to enter politics, saying the people elected them for their competence and not because they resorted to violence or vote buying.

Manzano said he also has a lot of experience both in private and public positions and that he would like to serve the country further.

Manzano is the administration candidate and the unpopularity of President Arroyo is said to be dimming his chances.

Sonza, Chipeco and Yasay said the people should look at the backgrounds and experiences of the candidates instead of just basing their decisions on popularity.