Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 25) — Presidential bet and labor leader Leody De Guzman believes the government should fund campaigns and use the state media to introduce candidates to level the playing field for them.
In an interview on Monday, CNN Philippines asked De Guzman if he believes funds sourced from taxes should be used for campaigns.
He said: “Tama. Dahil tayo ang naghahanap ng tamang tao e, ang mamamayan ay naghahanap ng tamang opisyal ng gobyerno na maglilingkod sa kanya ng tapat. Dapat hindi binibili ang posisyon sa Malacañang.”
[Translation: Correct. The people are the ones looking for the right officials who can serve the public sincerely. The position in Malacañang should not be bought.]
De Guzman also said that ordinary people like him are having a hard time reaching many parts of the country because of lack of resources, while other candidates can afford to visit many places and influence different sectors because they are richer and more powerful.
He noted that since the campaign began, he already spent over ₱100,000 from his pocket and some sponsors.
De Guzman also said the government should introduce candidates using the state media, which could partner with private media firms.
“Makikipag-deal sa iba’t ibang network para equal ang playing field at hindi mangyari na si Ka Leody na galing sa sektor ay hindi kayang maglagay ng payment sa TV kasi wala na siyang pera. Pero kung may equal opportunity na binibigay ang gobyerno, equal lang,” he explained.
[Translation: The state-owned media could make deals with other networks to level the playing field for someone like Ka Leody, who cannot afford to have advertisements. But this will change if the government gives equal opportunity.]
