PNoy to critics: I am not like 'epal' politicians

MANILA, Philippines — President Benigno Aquino III hit back at critics who branded him as a politician seeking public attention.

In his speech during the 45th anniversary of the Presidential Management Staff on Thursday night, Aquino said he is not like "epal" politicians who grab credit for government projects.

"Alam niyo naman, sa bagong cottage industry ng mga kritiko ko, kapag agad akong nagpakita sa isang lugar na tinamaan ng sakuna o trahedya, epal daw po ako," Aquino said.

"Kapag 'di naman ako agad nagpakita, kulang daw ang pag-aasikaso ko. Hindi naman po tayo tulad ng ilang pulitiko na mag-aabot lang ng ilang supot ng relief goods para magpa-photo op at pagkatapos ay 'di na muling makikita," the president added.

Aquino denied that he is vested with self-interest as his goal is to reach Filipinos who are in dire need of the government's help.

With only over 300 days left in his term, Aquino vowed that he will improve his leadership.

"Asahan ninyong dodoblehin ko rin ang sigasig para mas mapaarangkada pa ang ating bansa. At papalawakin at papagtibayin pa natin ang ating paninindigan na isulong ang mabuting pamamahala sa bawat aspekto ng lipunan," Aquino said.

It was not the first time that Aquino criticized "epal" politicians. In his final State of the Nation Address last month, the president said he cannot imitate these leaders who put their image above the country's problems.

"Sa mga hinarap nating hamon, puwede namang nagbigay na lang tayo ng band-aid solution. Puwedeng nag-abot na lang tayo ng isang supot ng relief goods, o nakipagsiksikan sa mga photo-op," he said.

"Pero alam naman nating sa Pilipinas, galit ang tao sa epal. Aanhin nga naman ang pogi points kung magpapamana lang din naman ako ng problema sa susunod na salinlahi?" Aquino added.