Former Vice President Noli returns to broadcasting

MANILA, Philippines - Former Vice President Noli de Castro returned yesterday to his morning radio program on dzMM after nine years of serving the government.

He decided to be a full-time private citizen after his term of office ended last June 30.

De Castro said he was offered a position in the Aquino administration but did not know if the President knew about it.

“It’s an honor to be offered (a post) even if I was with former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo but I decided to take a break from government service,” he said.

He, however, assured President Aquino and Vice President Jejomar Binay of his support and help.

De Castro said he served the country faithfully and fulfilled his commitment when he took his oath of office on June 30, 2004.

De Castro said he would miss the title of vice president but he knows that privileges are temporary and he is now ready for what he called “political detoxification” as a private citizen.

“I prefer to be called Kabayan or Noli,” De Castro said when asked what he would miss after six years as vice president.

“When I became vice president and senator, I experienced what I could not give to ordinary people. All privileges are temporary,” he said.