Mar turns to Leni, but she’s not interested

NAGA CITY, Philippines – While thankful and humbled for being considered as a possible running mate of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II in the 2016 polls, Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo remains averse to the idea.

Robredo yesterday told reporters she was happy with the support she and her family were getting from the people, but there was still nothing about running for higher office on the table.

“Others’ dreams for me are too big,” Robredo said as she led in remembering the third death anniversary of her husband Jesse, former city mayor and Roxas’ predecessor at the DILG. Her husband died in a plane crash off Masbate in 2012.

She added her daughters did not like the idea and it was stressing them out this early.

Robredo admitted talking to Roxas last month but only about her possible senatorial candidacy. But she said her priority was to run for reelection since her awareness rating was still very low and the day of reckoning would be before the filing of certificates of candidacy in October.

She said it was very humbling for her to be seen as a possible vice presidential candidate but quite frightening as well.

Later, at a multi-sectoral forum in honor of her late husband, Robredo thanked President Aquino, Roxas and the rest of the Cabinet for their help after her husband died.

Aquino provided all-out support not only to her family but to their district as well.

Robredo said she and her family will never forget what Aquino had done for them.

She described Roxas as the best friend and the “other spouse” of her late husband when he was still alive.

The congresswoman said Roxas helped her husband in many ways, including a chance to study abroad.

Roxas, for his part, said she undeniably is qualified to be his running mate and partner in continuing the straight path policy of the Aquino administration.

“The President himself acknowledges her capabilities,” Roxas said.

Before the multi-sectoral forum, Roxas was introduced as the “incoming president” and Robredo as the next vice president by one of those who paid tribute to the late mayor.

Meanwhile, Sen. Sergio Osmeña III said Robredo would be “perfect for the position” of vice president.

“Leni comes off as the extension of the image of Jesse. And yes, he was really pro-people, he was the most down to earth, humble, local government official that I met but effective, super effective,” the senator said.

“As a matter of fact, if he had not passed away, he’d be a candidate, he’d be pushed or touted as a candidate for the presidency,” Osmeña said.

“It’s not going to be hard to convince Leni to run, no, because she already said if I’m the last one then I’ll take it. She’s very loyal to the group or the party or whatever it is. So she already said it – kung wala na kayong makuha, ok lang (If you can’t find anyone, then I’m okay),” the senator said.

He also said Roxas would still fare well during the elections, noting that the problem with his campaign is the wrong messaging.