Palace: Campaigns finally shifting to high ground

The May 10 presidential race may finally be shifting to high ground as candidates expound on their platforms instead of throwing mud at each other, Malacañang claimed on Saturday. Deputy presidential spokesman Ricardo Saludo said recent forums featuring presidential bets have given the public clearer ideas on each candidate. “Mukhang mas nabibigyang pansin ngayon sa kabutihang palad unti-unti ang plataporma at programa ng kandidato (It appears the public is finally paying attention to platforms and programs of the candidates)," he said on government-run dzRB radio. In past weeks, presidential bets had attended several forums organized by various groups, including one in Makati City organized by the Foreign Correspondents’ Association of the Philippines. Media outfits have similarly organized their own forums, giving candidates a chance to air their platforms and stands on issues through television, radio and cyberspace. Saludo said it is time that the public pay more attention to these forums so they can gauge the capability of each candidate. “Alisin sa isip ang panira at bigyang pansin ang kanilang plataporma at sinusulong na position. Kalaunan siya ang pinakamahalaga sa pagtaya ng kakayahan ng ating kandidato (It is time to get rid of mudslinging and pay more attention to the candidates’ platforms and positions. Those are the best gauges of the candidates’ capability)," he said. On the other hand, Saludo said the Palace is glad that former Defense Secretary and administration standard bearer Gilberto Teodoro Jr. is at least getting high ratings in the surveys. Even in forums organized by groups critical of Malacañang, Teodoro topped the mock elections, he said. Saludo cited in particular the forums organized by the University of the Philippines and the Makati Business Club – which are critical of President Arroyo. “We need more of these forums to give the public an idea of the programs offered by each candidate," he added. — LBG, GMANews.TV