A Catholic nun is joined by students of St. Scholastica’s College as they hold signs and chant slogans to demand the abolition of a misused fund for legislators’ pet projects, outside their campus in Manila August 28, 2013. On Monday, tens of thousands Filipinos marched through the centre of Manila and other cities to express indignation at the misuse of “pork barrel” funds under the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). (MNS photo)
MANILA, Aug 25 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III got a negative rating from hundreds of anti-pork protesters after a Catholic prelate conducted an impromptu survey before the crowd at Rizal Park on Monday.
With a paper and pen, Archbishop emeritus Oscar Cruz asked the rallyists, who were composed of both militants and religious, to rate the President and the programs under his administration.
“For those who are complaining that the SWS (Social Weather System) did not include them in the survey, this morning, I’ll be surveyor,” he deadpanned.
Cruz then asked the audience, who were composed of both militants and religious, to raise their hands if they approve of the question he will be asking.
“Who is in favor of PDAF (Priority Development Assistance Fund)?” he said.
The crowd shouted “Wala! (none),” to which Cruz replied with “Kayong bahala dyan, nagtatanong lang ako (It’s up to you. I’m just asking.)”
The prelate noted their answer and jotted it down on a paper.
For his following questions, including their stand on the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), Charter Change, and Aquino’s reelection, Cruz got a “no” for all.
“So lahat zero? Now we rate the President’s performance, 10 being admirable, zero being terrible,” Cruz continued.
From ratings 10 to six, the former archbishop only tallied three people. But as the numbers went down, more and more hands were raised.
When Cruz asked, “How about zero?” majority of the crowd went for the lowest rating, and jeered “Wala bang negative?”
“Talagang mga salbahe kayo, wala na kayong pag-asa. Salamat. God bless. Ba-bye,” Cruz ended, drawing cheers from his survey participants.
In an interview after speaking before the rallyists, he said his survey was meant to send a message to the President that many of his people are not happy with his performance.
“They’re just saying what’s in their heart,” Cruz added. (MNS)