MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday reminded presidential aspirant Sen. Grace Poe not to make promises that are impossible to fulfill.
During a press briefing in Malacañang, Aquino said election candidates should respect the voting public by making statements and promises that are grounded on reality.
"Sana tulad ng pakiusap ko naman doon sa talagang oposisyon: Kapag magsalita tayo ibase natin sa katotohanan at 'yung pangako natin ilagay din natin sa katotohanan," Aquino said.
"Huwag nating ipangako 'yung langit at saka mga estrelya at saka 'yung buwan, kung hindi naman natin talagang kayang abutin iyon," he added.
Nevertheless, Aquino welcomed Poe's statement during the announcement of her candidacy last night that she will continue the reforms started by his administration.
Aquino also thanked the senator for recognizing his efforts in fighting corruption in government.
"Kung talaga 'yon ang pakay po nila na ipagpatuloy bakit naman natin ikakagalit iyon? At ang taumbayan ang magdedesisyon sa tamang oras kung sino ba talaga ang magpapatuloy 'nung ating pagtahak dito sa 'Daang Matuwid,'" Aquino said.
In her speech at the University of the Philippines on Wednesday, Poe said no single group can continue Aquino's Daang Matuwid platform as she laid out the 20 goals of her presidency.
In response, Aquino challenged the senator to surpass the achievements of his administration.
"Siguro kung mapapaganda pa nila 'yung nagawa natin sino naman ang magagalit doon? Siguro ang susunod na tanong diyan: Ano ba ang gagawin ninyo na mas mahigitan pa 'yung ginagawa na namin ngayon?"
Aquino said ultimately, the voters will judge if Poe can sustain the gains of Daang Matuwid.
What is important, Aquino said, is that the country should not return to the crooked path after he steps down next year.
"Huwag naman sanang lumabas na itong limang taon na ito ay kumbaga nagkaroon lang tayo ng intermission, tapos babalik sa katotohanan na pangit. Dito na tayo, pagandahin na natin 'yung magandang nangyayari na sa atin," he said.