Political battles; battling traffic

BEWARE of another dictator, President Aquino III warns. PNoy’s process of elimination: No to strong candidates who could extend their term and declare martial law.

*** The President rallies public support for his “tried and tested” administration standard bearer, DILG Sec. Mar Roxas.

He is no dictator, PNoy says of Mar. Well, even wife Korina could attest to that.

*** “It’s good to have only one term. You must do things that you can do then pass the reins to show that the Filipino nation can stay on the right direction,” PNoy adds.

Safer to stay with “daang matuwid,” PNoy suggests. Kahit na minsa’y matubig...

*** But after listening to three presidential prospects, the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) appears to favor Senator Grace Poe as its bet in 2016, in tandem with Sen. Chiz Escudero.

She appears to have all the qualifications despite the “disqualification,” they say.

***

NPC President and Deputy Speaker Giorgidi Aggabao reveals that “judging by the talks I had with the NPC members, the bias or inclination is still in favor of Senator Grace.”

But Rep. Marc, the son of NPC patriach Danding, has already declared his support for VP Binay. Division of political loyalty, sirs?

*** Davao City Mayor Rodrigo “The Punisher” Duterte declares that he is no longer running for the presidency.

He is either sincere, eyeing a lower post, or fishing for more presidential support.

*** Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. makes a subtle defense of Sen. Poe after she drew flak for “defending” the mass action of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) members on EDSA.

“Kuya” to the rescue: My “sister” was just misconstrued, says Bongbong.

*** Sen. Marcos’ camp says he is weighing his chances at running for vice president, possibly in tandem with VP Jojo Binay.

Bongbong fans say he will surely emerge winner... if only he could find a “presidentiable” named Mr. Puto.

***

Administration ally Rep. Elpidio Barzaga (Cavite) suggests that PNoy runs as the vice president of Mar, for a stronger LP ticket.

Let’s listen to what Ate Vi, Lenny, and Kris would say about it.

*** Meanwhile, Metro Manila’s traffic situation worsens with the recent heavy downpours and flooding.

“Daang matuwid” should not become “daang matrapik,” motorists and commuters complain.

*** Likewise, PAGASA forecasts a worsening El Niño, interspersed by wet days ahead.

Let’s brace up for a battle between El Niño heat and “hagupit-habagat,” folks.