His Firsts

Inspired by the clamor of the public, the only son of the Asia’s democratic icon decided to run for presidency after days of refuge and prayers in one convent down south. His main campaign propaganda: fight corruption and address the needs of the people. With millions of votes against his proponents, he was proclaimed the 15^th President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Benigno Simeon Conguangco Aquino III, from elite clans of the country, he wholeheartedly accepted the challenges bestowed upon him during his inauguration day. From being the Noynoy of the Filipinos, he is now their PNoy.

His inaugural speech was a mandate of change. Though criticized by the diplomatic corps because it was mostly delivered in Filipino, PNoy just showed his people that he wants them to comprehend his very first national address.

His speech was a bit controversial, giving an emphasis on the so-called garbage left by his predecessor’s administration. He disgraced the people from the government who are abusing their use of sirens, the feeling of being shoved aside and being displayed on of their position and power.

The speech promised to mark the end of a regime indifferent to the appeals of the people.

He was so true with his speech when he himself declined to use sirens during travels and being late in commitments because he’s stuck in the traffic stricken streets of the metropolis. And as a bachelor head of state, he’s living in simplest way he could and making himself a model for his administration’s men and women.

His actions were very much criticized by his critics; his executive orders, policies, appointments and actions. His administration was even compared to a Student Council.

The world was shocked of the hostage crisis happened weeks ago in the country’s capital. The failure and poor handling of the situation earned negative judgments, not just locally but even in the international community. This leads to opinions and comments that his government is weak.

Despite the negative criticism, PNoy flew to the United States for a official working visit and flew back home with smiles of hope together with billions of assured investments and funds for the social and service development for his people.

The young administration’s programs such as poverty alleviation and eradication of corruption are on track. Its efforts in running after against tax cheaters and bandits are quite visible. The recent budget proposal doubled the allotment for the conditional cash transfers that will benefit the people under the poverty line.

Although a truth commission was created to investigate the corruption scandals by his predecessor’s administration, it lacks the drive to criminally prosecute them. The government as if has no intent of focusing on the implementation of agrarian reforms as showcased on the ongoing case between the farmers and the Hacienda Luisita where the president has a direct power knowing it is owned by his clan.

The new administration may be given a passing or failing mark for its first 100 days. Pro and cons judgment will always be not equal.

The PNoy administration is in its puberty stage, full of adjustments and experimentation and trying to impress his audience. It is just like a normal boy exploring his new found power and the new world he is in, yet maintaining the image bestowed upon him by his roots.