Agricultural post ideal for Kiko

Echoes From

BY JOHNNY DAYANG

I am glad that former Senator Francisco “Kiko” Pangilinan has finally joined the Cabinet of President Aquino as presidential adviser with specific assignments that cover the National Food Authority (NFA), National Irrigation Administration (NIA) and other concerns needing immediate attention. 

With his unblemished records in public service, including some stints in media, I am sure Kiko would be able to make full use of his ascendancy for the much needed reforms in agricultural sectors.

During my stewardship as president of the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC), I had occasions to co-host the “Meet The Press” TV program with Kiko. It was during those occasional interfacing that I closely appreciated the refinement and seriousness of the former student leader in dealing with issues involving public interest. 

Our production of agricultural products, ranging from rice, corn, sugar, chickens, fishes, vegetables, and other basic commodities are getting acute and not meeting our needs. What could be the problem, knowing that we are an agricultural country? 

We hope Kiko, with his vision and honesty, would immediately mobilize the resources of the government and our people in harnessing our potentials as a great food producers. Indeed, it is not difficult to think of Kiko for 2016.

* * *
De Lima should avoid another EDSA Justice Secretary Leila De Lima should release the affidavit of Janet Lim Napoles to the public. Her continued refusal to release the affidavit of the alleged scam mastermind is imperiling the nation’s stability. It might result in another Edsa, hopefully not a violent one.

In fairness to all allegedly mentioned in the Napoles’ list and to our people who are anxious to know the truth, Secretary De Lima through the Blue Ribbon Committee of the Senate should now disclose the list. Let us not wait for people’ fury to heighten violently.

* * *
President Aquino, who deserves some kudos for Kiko’s appointment, should tap more people from the private sector to help him hasten the recasting and reinventing vital sectors of Philippine society towards his “Matuwid na Daan” program on good governance.

Senator Guingona and the Blue Ribbon
Senator Teofisto Guingona a 3rd, chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, has no choice but to continue the probe of the PDAF scam, in the in view of the latest affidavit Janet Napoles.