MANILA, (PNA) — Malacanang welcomed a recent Social Weather Station survey showing continuing public support for President Benigno S. Aquino III and his reform agenda.
The Social Weather Station Survey for the third quarter of 2013 shows 68 percent of Filipinos satisfied with President Aquino’s performance. The survey also shows a seven-point increase among those dissatisfied—from 12 percent in June to 19 percent in September.
In a statement on Monday, Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said that while an overwhelming majority of Filipinos remains supportive of the President and his agenda, the Palace recognizes that the increase in the number of dissatisfied people reflects the depth of public anger and disappointment for those who steal and misuse public funds.
“We share this anger and disappointment. No amount of clutter should confuse the true issue at hand: Public funds were stolen by elected officials and their cohorts in the bureaucracy and the private sector,” Valte said in a statement.
Public support of the President stemmed from his sincerity in addressing the ills of the system, his unwavering commitment to do what is just and right, his compassion for the underprivileged, and his belief that only by weeding out corruption can we uplift the lives of the poor, she noted.
“These remain our bedrock principles as the Aquino administration takes on its most significant fight yet, against those who have joined ranks to derail us from the straight path. Despite their efforts, we shall triumph, because we know—and the numbers show—that our Bosses, the people, remain on our side,” she continued.
At the same time, Valte expressed her gratitude for the great majority of people who have not been swayed by those opposing reform, thanking them for their commitment and lauding their capacity to discern.
The Palace official also made an assurance that the administration’s pursuit of justice will continue and intensify to hold accountable those who stole public funds and committed abuse of power.
“Those who have wronged us will be held accountable. Those who wish to bring us back to the old ways will not succeed,” she said.