Vice President Jejomar Binay walks among his supporters at the Makati City hall on Monday. People gathered at the city hall grounds to show their support for the older Binay and his son, Makati Mayor Junjun Binay, who was earlier served another suspension by the Ombudsman. (MNS photo)
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Accept the money, but vote for your candidate.
Vice President Jejomar Binay gave this advice to voters on Tuesday as he expressed fear that government resources might be used by his political opponents in the 2016 polls.
Binay received a warm welcome in the town of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao where he was the guest of honor and speaker during the town’s 68th Foundation Anniversary program.
In a speech before allies and supporters, the vice president warned vote buying could happen in next year’s election.
“Babaha ang perang parang tubig. Isipin na lang ninyo, yung sinasabing naipon ng pamahalaan, daan daang milyon. Wow. Pagka kayo ay binibigyan ng pera para maibenta ang inyong boto, tanggapin niyo. Nakakahiya naman sa nagbibigay. Ilagay sa bulsa, bumoto sang-ayon sa inyong kursunada,” he said.
Binay also expressed his support for the ongoing peace negotiations between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
“Sa ating administrasyon na pamumunuan ng partidong UNA ay titiyakin natin na magkakaroon sa lalong madaling panahon at magtatagumpay ang kasunduan kapayapaan sa inyong lugar,” he said.
He also had something to say to his critics.
“Sa dami dami ng kasinungalingan na ipinagbibintang sa akin at sa aking pamilya ni minsan I have never been suspended nor convicted,” he said.
Binay added his camp is still in the process of choosing his running mate, and among those being considered is senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
After his speech, the vice president led his Maguindanao allies in a pledge of commitment.
Aside from the Mastura clan in Sultan Kudarat, the Ampatuan, Midtimbang, and Paglas clans have also expressed their support for the vice president. (MNS)