Aquino cites First 100 days accomplishment, hits critics

By Thea Alberto
Yahoo! Southeast Asia

(UPDATE) President Benigno "Noynoy” Aquino  boasted of strengthening the fight against corruption and leading a frugal government in his First 100 days in office during a speech speech detailing his accomplishments.

"Ngayon, meron na kayong gobyernong handang magsabi ng totoo,” Aquino said in his speech before a multi-sectoral audience at the La Consolacion College, Mendiola.

Aquino cited his administration’s discovery of anomalous benefits of officials of Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) and in Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System.

He also mentioned that government projects were being studied thouroughly to minimize government spending.

"Binibigyan natin ng katuturan ang paggastos,” Aquino said.

He also boasted an improved Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), with weather forecasting now done hourly.

"Marami tayong binago sa Pagasa, kasama na dito ang bulok na sistema,” Aquino said.

He also said that for the First 100 days, his administration pushed for the zero-based budgeting, an increase in the Department of Education’s budget, and conditional cash transfers.

Under his watch, government has also strengthened battle against tax evaders.

"Kinikilala na ng pandaigdigang merkado ang pagtatag ng ating piso. Philippine Stock Exchange is one of the best performing stock markets in Asia,” Aquino added.

Aquino, meanwhile, likened the previous administration to "Tatlong Matsing,” for being "deaf, blind, and for lying.”

He also lashed back at his critics.

"Hindi po kami nagbibiro sa tuwid na landas. May taning kayong lahat,” said Aquino.

Aquino was sworn in as the country’s 15th president on June 30.

Aquino’s speech was hinged on the theme "Isang Daang Araw sa isang Daang matuwid: Report kay Boss.”

Aquino also answered questions from several constituents, town hall meeting style.

A group of supposed student protesters hitting on budget cuts to State universities briefly disrupted the question and answer segment.

Aquino, however, listened and the host event thanked the students, noting freedom of speech is alive in the country. The group was later ushered out of the event.

Present were Vice President Jejomar Binay, presidential sister Pinky Abellada, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, some members of the Aquino Cabinet, Aquino’s political allies and campaign supporters.

Viewers from Baguio City, Cebu City (Cebu Provincial Capitol) and Davao City (People’s Park) also listened to the speech.

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Photo by AP