Looks like it’s Mar-Leni in 2016 – Belmonte

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., vice chairman of the ruling Liberal Party (LP) expressed strong belief yesterday that Camarines Sur Rep. Leonor ‘Leni’ Gerona Robredo will be the eventual running mate of LP standard-bearer Manuel ‘Mar’ Roxas II.

“It looks like Robredo will be the VP candidate,” he said.

Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas and Cavite Rep. Francis Gerald Abaya, staunch supporters of Roxas and LP stalwarts branded as reasonable Robredo's request to give her three weeks to decide on whether or not she would join the vice presidential derby.

“I understand where Cong. Leni is coming from, having known her personally. She is a very simple and humble person. Hindi siya politiko at hindi siya oportunista.(She is not a traditional politician and not opportunistic) I really wish she says yes to be our vice president. The sooner, the better. She’s the perfect fit for daangmatuwid,” Vargas said.

‘Till September ends’ Abaya said he is also eagerly waiting the final sealing of the "perfect Roxas-Robredo tandem.”

“I believe LP respects Cong. Leni so much that it will accede to her request and will never question her sincerity, or the reasonableness of her request. On the other hand, I also believe that Cong. Leni equally respects LP that she will do what is right and will come through for the party,” he said.

Caloocan City Rep. Edgar Erice, chairman of the LP committee on electoral and political affairs, said they will wait for Robredo's final word until the end of September.

Recto staying with LP Meantime, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto yesterday said he would maintain his alliances with the ruling Liberal Party (LP) even as other political groups are inclined to back his reelection bid.

Recto made the assurance in response to reports that he is listed under the Senate slate of the newlyformed ‘Poe-Escudero’ tandem .

Recto, however, said he would welcome any endorsement coming from their group, or any other party for that matter.

“I’m staying with the LP. But if other groups would support me, I am really very thankful for their trust,” he said.

During Escudero’s declaration last Thursday, his mother, Sorsogon Rep. Evelina Escudero told reporters there are already at least eight names listed under the Poe-Escudero’s senatorial ticket but declined to reveal the names.