Tañada slams Mar critics

MANILA, Philippines – Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. Lorenzo Tañada III yesterday defended newly appointed Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II from criticisms.

Tañada said critics are ignoring Roxas’ long track record and reputation for integrity.

“I believe those who are criticizing Secretary Mar are just paranoid and are seeing ghosts,” Tañada said.

“Secretary Mar’s integrity and track record would show that he’s beyond reproach and is a professional…there’s no basis for their fears,” he said.

The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) also expressed support and urged the speedy confirmation of Roxas, saying he has “unquestionable integrity” for the job.

“The Filipino people have another dedicated and committed public servant in Secretary Roxas, based on his qualifications. Like (the late) Jesse Robredo, he fits the DILG job because of his unquestionable integrity and his strong work ethic,” ULAP president Mindoro Oriental Gov. Alfonso Umali Jr. said.

Umali, who is also president of the League of Provinces of the Philippines, said Roxas “will be his own man in the DILG and will not allow his office to be exploited for political objectives.”

He said ULAP member-leagues unanimously welcomed President Aquino’s appointment of Roxas.

“We in ULAP are one in calling for his early confirmation so that he can buckle down to work immediately,” he said.

Roxas has held several high-level government positions, giving him all the required skills to deal with various agencies and pursue the President’s programs for excellence and efficiency in governance, Umali pointed out.

He also expressed confidence that both Roxas and newly appointed Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya will easily pass confirmation by the Commission on Appointments.