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Critics use Obama speech to score Arroyo, allies


MANILA, Philippines – Political opponents of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Wednesday highlighted parts of US President Barack Obama's inaugural speech to criticize President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's administration. In a text message to reporters, United Opposition (UNO) spokesperson Adel Tamano said President Arroyo and her allies should feel at fault after listening to Obama’s speech. “Firstly, [President Arroyo] and her allies should feel guilty and fearful after listening to Obama’s inauguration speech. Truly, the days of [President Arroyo] and her allies are numbered in history – and in due time, the Courts – which will judge them harshly," Tamano said. In his speech, Obama said “those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist." Tamano also said the Filipinos should find inspiration in Obama’s victory in its pursuit of leaders bringing “genuine and meaningful change" to the country. For its part, militant group Anakpawis said President Arroyo must sense that she was among “corrupt leaders" referred to in Obama's address. Radio dzBB’s Manny Vargas quoted the Anakpawis as saying that Arroyo administration “must stop pretending" that it on a crusade against corruption, adding that it is enmeshed in corrupt practices “left and right." Malacañang, however, lashed back at the President’s critics even as it said “it is normally more prudent not to reply to attacks of this nature because a response will only serve to legitimize it." In a text message to GMANews.TV, presidential deputy spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo said the President’s detractors will “grab any opportunity" to blame the President for the problems of the country. “They are desperate for publicity that we wouldn’t be surprised if they resorted to blaming the President for a natural calamity," Fajardo said. “The President is virtuous and honorable and her sincerity in fighting corruption is unquestionable," she added. - Sophia Dedace, GMANews.TV
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