Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 28) — Newly appointed anti-poverty czar Larry Gadon refuted claims his appointment was a form of “political accommodation,” saying he has what it takes to be a presidential adviser.
“I have a talent, skill, and capability to help the president and to serve the public,” he told a press briefing on Wednesday.
He said his appointment will only be labeled as “political accommodation” if he is unequipped with skills or capability.
Gadon, who was part of the UniTeam’s senatorial slate during the 2022 national elections, was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as presidential adviser for poverty alleviation on Monday.
The controversial lawyer also warned his critics who are calling to revoke his appointment: “Maging presidente muna sila… Kung congressman ka lang lalo pa party-list ka lang eh tumahimik ka. Naka-receive ka lang ng 300,000 votes gusto mo i-overpower mo ‘yung 31 million votes na ibinigay na political power sa isang presidente?” he said.
[Translation: Be the president first… If you’re just a congressman let alone a party-list, shut up. You only received 300,000 votes, and you want to overpower the 31 million votes that gave political power to a president?]
RELATED: ‘Extremely poor choice’: Gabriela on Gadon’s appointment as anti-poverty czar
The Supreme Court on Wednesday disbarred Gadon over a viral video clip that showed his “misogynistic, sexist, abusive, and repetitive intemperate language” against journalist Raissa Robles.
But according to Gadon, the recent suspension was not a big deal as he has not practiced his law profession since 2015.
Asked why he still decided to file a motion for reconsideration, Gadon said: “Wala lang [Nothing]. It is just the advice of my lawyers.”
Gadon also said he will try to restrain hate speech now that he is appointed as presidential adviser but argued that his previous remarks “ had to be done.”
“Sobrang kasinungalingan ‘yung mga ginagawa ng katunggali namin. Kung hindi mo sila madaan sa paliwanag, eh daanin mo sa galit. Edi naging effective, presidente ngayon yung kandidato ko,” he said.
