Pangasinan remains solid behind GMA, says gov

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – Although President Arroyo is now facing harsh criticisms from her fellow Pangasinense, ousted Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., this province remains solid in supporting her, Gov. Amado Espino Jr. said.

At the opening ceremonies of the Ilocos Region Athletic Association meet here yesterday, Espino told a crowd of about 8,000 athletes, coaches, and observers from this province, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, and La Union that Pangasinan leaders are backing the President.

“Ignore the chaos in Metro Manila. Let us continue to do our normal work, let us not mind them,” he said.

Local folk carried placards, streamers and tarpaulins expressing support for the President whom they consider as their kabaleyan.

Espino and Pangasinan mayors said that they are “outside the rift between her and De Venecia,” who represents the province’s fourth congressional district.

“You can see from the people’s reactions, they came spontaneously bearing their placards to show their love for the President,” Espino said.

During the event, La Union Gov. Manoling Ortega also expressed his province’s support for the President.