Admin senatorial bets on Mar: What image problem?

ROXAS CITY, Philippines – What image problem?

Senatorial candidates of the Koalisyon ng Daang Matuwid on Tuesday refuted notions that their standard bearer Manuel “Mar” Roxas II has an image problem because he came from a well-off family.

In separate interviews during the kickoff of the coalition’s campaign, the administration’s senatorial bets took turns in defending Roxas, who is lagging behind in surveys on presidential bets.

“He (Roxas) does not have an image problem. You just have to explain to the people why he should be elected,” Senate President Franklin Drilon said.  

“It’s about addressing a perception. We need to explain that Roxas has proven himself and can be trusted, that he can implement good governance, that he is for transparency,” he added.

Former Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the claim that Roxas has an image problem is unfair.

“I am confident that his numbers will rise. There is a misconception, it is a matter of knowing him more.  He is a kindhearted person,” de Lima said.

“The perception is not fair. This campaign period, the people will get to know him better,” she added.

Former interior assistant secretary for Muslim affairs Nariman Ambolodto said she knows Roxas as someone who cares for the country.

“I know the capabilities and the true identity of Sec. Mar. He has genuine concern. I’ve seen who he really is. He was my boss at the DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government),” Ambolodto said.

COOP NATCO Rep. Cresente Paez said there is no need for Roxas to change his image to boost his survey ratings.

“He should just talk about the straight path. He should just show that he is focused on helping the poor,” Paez said.

For former food security adviser Francis Pangilinan, Roxas just needs to communicate his programs more effectively.

“The message that he won’t steal from our people is resonating. He is honest and has integrity. And people would go for that,” he said.

Some commentators said Roxas is trailing in the survey because of perceptions that he is a snob and an elitist.

Despite the endorsement of President Aquino, who consistently enjoyed high trust ratings, Roxas only ranked third in the Social Weather Stations survey on presidential candidates released last month.

He was chosen by 21 percent of the respondents, behind Vice President Jejomar Binay (31 percent) and Sen. Grace Poe (24 percent).

In the Pulse Asia poll released last Saturday, Roxas tied with Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte in third place with 20 percent. Poe topped the survey with 30 percent while Binay landed on second place with 23 percent.