Noy to pray for critics during Lent

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino will try to find “quiet time” for himself this Holy Week and pray for his harshest critics, that they may see the light.

“Some quarters have this intense hate that they have continuously exhibited. Maybe I’ll concentrate on praying for them,” he told reporters yesterday while inspecting the Batangas port terminal where hundreds gathered in a rush to leave for the provinces.

“So far I still don’t have quiet time. Of course, headlines do not induce one to have quiet moments,” he said. The country is bracing for another powerful typhoon, which is expected to make landfall on the weekend.

Aquino’s spiritual adviser and other religious personalities have urged him to take time off during the Holy Week, which he intends to spend in his official residence at Bahay Pangarap.

Aquino conducted yesterday an inspection of major transport terminals in Batangas and in Metro Manila.

Last week, Aquino took a swipe at his detractors, particularly those opposing the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

“I get to wonder now: Are the ones calling to put a stop to the BBL those who will be the most affected by the transformation that we seek to make permanent for the Bangsamoro?” Aquino asked.

“Perhaps, their sole intention is to lord it over our countrymen once more, the moment that the old system is restored,” he said.

“Expect that, as we move closer and closer to attaining our long-held dream for peace, the cacophony that aims to dismantle our trust in each other will also grow louder,” Aquino said.

“It is only right and prudent for us to prepare, for them not to succeed. Thus, we must also carefully examine their motivations. If they truly desire to serve their constituencies, shouldn’t they be on the side of peace?” he asked.

He said criticism of the BBL “solely stems from a lack of understanding” of the measure. “Take, for example, their statements that there will be a separate police force for the Bangsamoro once it is enacted into law,” he said.