What do you expect from an Aquino presidency?

Norberto Robles, Taguig: Nothing more than the expectation that Noynoy, the president, really has got the political backbone to carry out what Noynoy, the candidate, promised.

Lydia Reyes, Bataan: I expect reforms in governance, economic prosperity and an honest leadership.

That he keep his promises

Ed Gulmatico, Bacolod City: We expect him to fulfill what he promised during his campaign, especially that of reforming the nine years of bad governance of the outgoing administration, stopping GMA’s desire to become House Speaker and ultimately ending up as Prime Minister, and minimizing, if not totally eliminating, corruption. He must serve the Filipino people with sincerity, honesty, justice and real compassion.

Argie Concha, Batangas: I expect Pres. Aquino to keep his promises: 1) That he would give Hacienda Luisita to its rightful owners; 2) That he would sincerely fight corruption.

Maricel Maralit, Naga City: I expect Noynoy to make good on his campaign promises and to prove to each and everyone of us that he is his own man.

Editha Monreal, Antipolo City: “Hindi ako magnanakaw.” This is a very easy line to memorize. I hope Noynoy will remember this for the next six years, at least.

Robert Young Jr., San Juan: Simply that he remember and keep his oath of office: “Mataimtim kong pinanunumpaan na tutuparin ko nang buong katapatan at sigasig ang aking mga tungkulin bilang Pangulo ng Pilipinas, pangangalagaan at ipagtatanggol ang kanyang Konstitusyon, ipatutupad ang mga batas nito, magiging makatarungan sa bawat tao, at itatalaga ang aking sarili sa paglilingkod sa Bansa. Kasihan nawa ako ng Diyos.”

Ishmael Q. Calata, Parañaque City: It’s time to restate the pronouncements of President-elect Noynoy Aquino and his drumbeaters and put them to task on their campaign promises: 1) “Hindi kami magnanakaw!”; 2) No increase in taxes; 3) Walang mahirap kung walang corrupt; 4) Not to honor GMA’s Chief Justice appointee (let’s see what happens); 5) Change. Do something about all these, Mr. President. We expect that your administration will be far removed from what we saw in past administrations, including that of your own mother, which all failed to curb venality in government. Over and above these, may we ask that you take back your support for the Reproductive Health Bill, which will surely lead to the legalization of abortion and the practice of many anti-life and anti-family provisions embedded in the bill. Get rid of corruption, which is the true root cause of poverty. God bless our land and our nation!

Herculano Babatido, Misamis Oriental: Pres. Aquino must be true to his promises and obey the Constitution.

I expect him to prove his worth

Kyle Laluces, Metro Manila: I expect Sen. Aquino to step out of the shadows of his parents and prove himself worthy to partake in the legacy that his family had built in our country.

Camille Velicaria, Cainta, Rizal: I expect him to fulfill his promise that “Hindi ako magnanakaw.” Aquino should step out of the shadows of his parents and prove himself worthy of the trust and loyalty of the Filipinos. He should have more programs concerning agriculture. The once-lush green lands of the Philippines have been urbanized, forcing us to import what we can plant and reap here. We were once among the top rice exporters in the world; he should aim for the Philippines to be like that again. Hopefully, he will be able to unite the Filipinos for the betterment of the country. May he be guided by the One above and lead our country to a better future.

We hope for change

Lorenzo Fernandez Jr., _Cabanatuan City: I hope his administration will be a genuine springboard for real progress and change, not just one for political or personal vendetta.

Joe Nacilla, Las Piñas City: If we are to believe reports that Aquino will not take his oath before newly-appointed Supreme Court Chief Justice, it’s a sign of madness and vengeance that will result in disunity. How can we begin progress if the walls of mistrust still stand? Unforgiving bitterness will only negatively affect not only his mental health, but also his physical health.

Nothing will change

Joel Caluag, Bulacan: If Noynoy Aquino is beholden to the people surrounding him like Dinky Soliman and Butch Abad, nothing will change.

Ruel Bautista, Laguna: Noynoy, like Cory, is a softy. He won’t tread a road less traveled and will just swim with the tide.

Tino Abella, Masbate: Some people with crab mentality will give him hard time, but I trust that the majority will support him versus these corrupt people.

That he lead us to a better future

Abelardo Abilay, Laguna: To whom much is given, much is required. Noynoy has a lot of work to do. I expect less corruption in his presidency. This was what he promised from the beginning. The Aquino presidency will be better with God’s help and with our passion for change and progress. In due time, the Philippines will reach its glory days.

Desuel Pardo, Mandaluyong City: I expect President Noynoy Aquino to transform our government into one that is corruption-free and service-oriented to address the needs of the people. He can fulfill his promise by understanding the negative attitudes of his political opponents and taking away his thirst for vengeance and by persuading everybody to work together for the good of the country. We pray that the Holy Spirit strengthen and guide Pres. Noynoy in transforming our attitude toward selflessness that will ultimately usher in a new and better Philippines.

Renato Taylan, Ilocos Norte: I’m confident that with the help of all sectors of society, he will be able to lead our country towards economic prosperity.

Rudy Tagimacruz, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon: For starters, I expect the Aquino presidency to examine what really went wrong in the talks aimed at ending the Mindanao conflict peacefully.

Cesar Bilbao, Metro Manila: I expect that corruption will be addressed with boldness and that genuine peace and prosperity will be achieved under the Aquino presidency.

William Gonzaga, Marikina City: I expect transparency and a corruption-free administration, which is the complete antithesis of the graft-ridden PGMA regime. Likewise, an improved economy is needed to stem the Filipino diaspora, which has seen 10 per cent of our population going abroad to seek employment. Much needs to be done to attract investors that would establish industries and provide good-paying jobs hereabouts.

Ruben Viray, Antipolo City: The Aquino administration should focus more on the needs of the people. A complete change of Cabinet for better governance is in order. He should also set aside vengeance and political vendetta for peace of mind. I expect him to perform all his duties stated in our Constitution with all sincerity and honesty. Lastly, I expect him to unite the Filipino people for a strong and progressive Philippines. May the force be with you, Mr. President.

Leonard Villa, Batac City: Noynoy can heal deep political wounds, improve the economy, put some decency in government, and minimize graft and corruption. He’s God’s blessing to our beloved country.

Hatred and political vendetta

Leandro Tolentino, Batangas City: It might not be impressive at all, since after a daughter of an ex-president leaves Malacañang, a son of another ex-president will now take the helm. Vengeance is expected of the forthcoming Aquino presidency.

C.B. Manalastas, Manila:  Unless Aquino mends his ways and mindset, we foresee a short-lived presidency caused by his politics of hatred and vengeance.

Rodolfo Talledo, Angeles City: All high-profile GMA projects will be shelved to discredit her administration. Vengeful, arrogant and feisty handlers who are after perks and the spoils will lead Noynoy.

Dennis Montealto, Mandaluyong City: Vengeance and more of political vendetta. Weren’t those his campaign promises that sank to the electorate’s psyche as his platform of government?

Joe Nacilla, Las Piñas City: My unsolicited advice to Noynoy: Always remember that victory has a thousand fathers while defeat or failure is a lonely orphan. Have a mind of your own. Do not listen to the people who will pull you down as they did the previous administration. Do not recycle them. Instead of revenge or vindictiveness, be forgiving.

I’m not so sure

Pedro Alagano Sr., Vigan City: I don’t expect too much to preempt being disappointed if he can’t deliver. For him to be able to steer the country out of the shark-infested waters is enough to ease my burden. I don’t speculate; thus, being an ordinary citizen, I just watch any development ahead.

Rico Fabello, Parañaque City: Up until now, I really don’t know what Noynoy can do. Still, all the best for him.

Felix Ramento, USA: I expect the Aquino presidency to be less pernicious than what his major rivals had to offer. But that remains to be seen.

Graft-free governance

Elpidio Que, Vigan: I expect Noynoy to deliver what he promised. I expect him deal with corrupt trapos and corruptor tycoons who are well entrenched as economic locusts in our political landscape. I expect him to exhibit extraordinary assiduity in converting his promises into reality. I expect him to strongly consider the recent recommendation of ex-PCGG Commissioner Ruben Carranza to put up an economic crime investigation agency, in lieu of the graft-ridden PCGG, to go after past and present plunderers in business and government.

Eric Gopilan, Quezon City: I expect transparency and I expect him to set a good example in terms of leadership. He will heighten our moral awareness and save the country.

Dr. Gen Padilla, Valenzuela City: My only expectation of the Aquino presidency is for heads to roll where corruption is concerned. No exception.

Jim Veneracion, Naga City: Under Noynoy, I expect a graft-free governance, full transparency, respect for human rights, and the gradual eradication of poverty.

Richard Decena, Quezon City: The Aquino presidency will be the opposite of GMA. Maglilingkod nang walang pangungurakot at ibabalik ang respeto ng sambayanang Pilipino.

Ignacio Anacta, Metro Manila: Anti-corruption programs and the prosecution of those found guilty. More opportunities for the underprivileged and cleansing and improving our judicial system.

Germi Sison, Cabanatuan City:  I expect President Aquino to treat and serve all the Filipino people fairly, efficiently and effectively by leading our government and getting rid of corruption to restore their faith in the government and regain the respect of the world.

Honor his parents’ legacies

Dr. Dennis Acop, Baguio City: A lot. First, I expect an Aquino presidency to be the opposite of the much-despised Arroyo presidency. If the Arroyo administration was known for its massive corruption, I expect an Aquino presidency to finally go after corruption, regardless of it being an uphill battle. Second, I expect the Aquino presidency to practice transparency. Congress, with its power over the purse, was undermined by pork barrel dismissed by its recipients as political countrywide development fund a convenient euphemism for plain and simple corruption. This must change. Third, I expect Noynoy to practice integrity. Fourth, to succeed where others before him have failed, the yellow light must combine his father’s practical brilliance with his mother’s divine grace. Only he is capable of doing this.

Ching Gaspar, Laoag City: Noynoy will not do something to besmirch his parents’ image. He will try his best to have a corruption-free government. He will screen his Cabinet members on the basis of integrity and track record. Let us give him enough time to prove his mettle. There’s lot of things to iron out from a government laden with graft and corruption.

Lolong Rejano, Marinduque: Unless Aquino is in control of his men in Malacañang, the Aquino presidency could become a nest of Cabinet men of vultures and he might run out of time answering allegations of corruption. I hope Noynoy is guided by the Holy Spirit in selecting people around him. Mr. President, protect the good name of your parents; it was your effective tool during the campaign and it should not put in vain.

Johann Lucas, Quezon City: He may not be the most intelligent president, but the goodness of his heart that he got from his parents will be his greatest weapon.

Same things his mother brought us

Jose Fabello Jr., Cagayan de Oro City: An Aquino presidency will be as tumultuous as his mother’s.

Gerii Calupitan, Muntinlupa City: “Here’s the new boss, the same as the old boss. Won’t get fooled again.” (The Who, 1973). He’ll be another Cory, only worse. Tita Cory brought us back democracy, Meralco and the Lopez clan, and also 10-hour brownouts, coup d’états, Kris and Kamag-anak Inc. Another Aquino presidency will bring back Meralco, the Lopez clan, 10-hour brownouts, Kris, Kamag-anak Inc. Hindi mamumunga ng santol ang bayabas. Parallel facts: Walang First Gentleman si Cory; walang First Lady si Noynoy. Walang alam si Cory, as FM said; wala daw alam si Noynoy. Ako, “He sees the sun going down and the eyes in his head sees the world spinning ‘round.” (Fool on the Hill, The Beatles, 1968).

He might be a lameduck president

Ferdinand Rafer, Cavite: There’s a possibility that, if the Senate President and Speaker of the House comes from the opposition, he may become a lameduck president.

Fortunato Aguirre, Bulacan: I pity Noynoy should PGMA become Speaker of the House, which is dominated by her relatives and minions, coupled with a GMA Supreme Court.

C.B. Manalastas, Manila: I don’t expect a rosy and progressive Philippines under an Aquino regime. Magiging sunod-sunuran lang siya sa mga taong nakapalibot sa kanya.

It depends on who his advisers will be

Juan Deveraturda, Subic, Zambales: Noynoy lacks the executive and administrative experience to run our country. He has not even managed a barangay or department in the past. He has no choice but to rely on the advice of other people. Let us hope he gets advice from reliable and well-meaning people with no vested interests to protect. If not, heaven forbid, our country will be in a very turbulent and chaotic situation.

Ed Alawi, Davao City: Let’s wait for the Cabinet Secretaries and appointees before we can judge what the Aquino presidency will be. We hope it won’t be the same trapos.

Work hard for the good of the country

Rose Leobrera, Manila: First, to do his level best to uplift the lives of the million Filipinos who were cheated by the gluttonous administration of PGMA. As he said, matuwid na daan ang kanyang tinatahak. Second, that he would bring light to all those shady deals involving the present administration. Third, that he would be transparent about the people’s taxes. I just want change, and I want to feel it myself.

Cris Rivera, Rizal: That it will work within the established laws of the land, with the rights and welfare of the entire citizenry as its primordial concern.

Lucas Banzon Madamba II, USA: Expectations from an Aquino presidency: 1. Work hard for the benefit of the country; 2. Protect, preserve, uphold and defend the Constitution; 3. Uplift our country from poverty, corruption, etc.; 4. Reduce the huge budget deficit of our country; 5. Promote job creation and help the unemployed get jobs; 6. Reform the various agencies and institutions in our country that need reform; 7. Help promote and improve the health, education, transportation, infrastructure and business sectors in our country; and 8. Make our country a more competitive and more progressive nation in the world of nations.

Deal with the ghosts of his family’s past

Armando Tavera, Las Piñas City: I expect the total dissolution of Kamag-anak Inc. and a solution to the Hacienda Luisita case and the granting of CARP to its recipients.

Prioritize economic development

Dr. Jose Balcanao, Benguet: I expect that the Aquino presidency would end poverty. He must prioritize economic development above politics.

Ernesto Oliquiano, Las Piñas City: One, restore the confidence of the people to the government. Second, reduce, if not eradicate, corruption in the bureaucracy and use wisely the meager resources of the government. He should channel every cent to the upliftment of the poor, improving our educational system, making it more affordable to the poor. And third, improve the country’s economy so that everyone will have a job, enabling them to support their families.

Don’t be a politician

Rey Onate, Palayan City: He should stop being a politician, starting by taking his oath before CJ Corona. Mag-Presidente siya; huwag mamulitika.

 Views expressed in this section do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of The STAR. The STAR does not knowingly publish false information and may not be held liable for the views of readers exercising their right to free expression. The publication also reserves the right to edit contributions to this section as it sees fit.

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