Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay believes Interior Sec. Manuel Roxas II is not a threat in the 2016 presidential elections.
Roxas is expected to be endorsed by President Benigno Aquino III as a presidential candidate tomorrow (July 31).
When asked if he thinks he will win in a two-way fight against Roxas, Binay opted to refer to the surveys.
Based on the recent presidential preference survey, Sen. Grace Poe is the public’s top choice to be the next president — with Binay trailing behind her.
Roxas is lagging behind them in the 3rd to 4th place.
Binay says that the 2016 elections is the return bout for him and Roxas, who were bitter rivals in the 2010 vice presidential elections.
Binay quips he will once again use his “lucky punch” to beat his opponent in 2016.
LP courting Pacquiao
Meanwhile, Binay confirmed that the Liberal Party is courting Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao to join their party.
Binay said he was able to talk to Pacquiao recently and the boxer assured the vice president that he will stay with the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA).
But Binay added that Pacquiao has yet to decide if he will accept UNA’s offer for him to run for senator.
Unity covenant
Thousands of Caviteños warmly welcomed Binay as he made his rounds in Cavite on Thursday (July 30).
Binay was joined by Cavite Gov. Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla, a member of the Nacionalista Party, who earlier served as his spokesperson.
Also with them are Sen. Nancy Binay, Cavite Vice Gov. Ramon “Jolo” Revilla III, and Alma Moreno, who may run for the Senate next year under UNA.
At 7:00 p.m. tonight, Remulla’s Partido Magdalo will sign a unity covenant with UNA, expressing their support to the opposition party in the 2016 elections.
