Philippine administration party chooses official candidates for 2010 elections
By Channel NewsAsia's Philippine Correspondent Christine Ong | Posted: 20 November 2009 0135 hrs

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MANILA: In an apparent show of force, some 3,000 members of President Gloria Arroyo's political party gathered at the Philippine International Convention Center on Thursday to formally declare former defence secretary Gilbert Teodoro and game show host Edu Manzano as the administration party's official candidates for president and vice president, respectively, for the May 2010 elections.

Despite the poor performance of their standard bearer in recent surveys, the ruling party is confident that with their vast political machinery, they will emerge victorious in next year's elections.

The party is also banking on the popularity of television personality Edu Manzano to boost the administration party's low public approval ratings.

Gilbert Teodoro Jr, presidential candidate said: "We have a wide party machinery. We have a vision and a clear platform. We stand on a party with a track record of service and performance.

"Naturally, because we are the administration party, whenever there are problems, we are the ones facing those head on, and you really cannot satisfy everybody. But still we have performed incredibly well."

Edu Manzano, vice presidential candidate said: "Popularity will not suffice. We will need to rely on support mechanisms that will allow us to relay to the people our plans and platforms that will give them a brighter future."

The administration's party is hoping for a repeat of the 2004 elections whereby President Gloria Arroyo was able to clinch the presidency despite suffering from low popularity ratings.

It remains to be seen, however, whether they would be able to duplicate the same feat in 2010.

- CNA/sc