Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Days after he announced his vice presidential bid, Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero faced the media on Tuesday (September 22) in a forum to discuss political and social issues that would define his campaign platform with presidential running mate Sen. Grace Poe for next year’s elections.
Escudero, who officially declared his intent to run for vice president last September 17, has been a target of attacks on social media, accusing him of manipulating Poe to pursue his interests.
But Escudero insisted Poe decided for herself. He added that she speaks her mind on matters that are important to their political plans.
He cited the failed attempts of President Benigno Aquino III to convince Poe to run as vice president for administration standard bearer, Manuel “Mar” Roxas, implying that even the most powerful man in the country cannot impose on the neophyte senator.
When he was pressed if he would run for president if Poe loses her case before the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) in November, Escudero said it’s unlikely to happen since he will be filing his candidacy for the vice president in October.
Commission on Elections (Comelec) rules prohibit candidates from running as a substitute for a fellow contender.
Escudero remained confident Poe will win the SET case and defended their tandem against critics who say the lady senator is too inexperienced to be president.
He said President Aquino performed pretty well despite being perceived to have limited executive experience.
When asked about his idea of the next administration’s cabinet composition, he joked about ensuring that Secretaries Florencio “Butch” Abad, Dinky Soliman, and Jun Abaya are out.
Escudero said boosting the country’s manufacturing sector, infrastructure, and education will be the top three priorities he will be pushing with Poe.
