Body Language
Local government officials who recently met with President Duterte at Clark proudly savour the event with relish. Some were amused by his brutal statements, “papatayin kita.” Most were confounded by his ribald remarks, “Tang ina.”
***** Pres. Duterte is a crafty fellow. You can be misled by his body language. You can be deceived his candor and jest while keeping his card close to his chest. Having watched him with the nanay Baby close up I would not guess the status of their relations. I believe he treats her with convivial respect but keeps her at arm’s length. Whatever doubt he has for Mrs. Pineda the astute and politically resilient governor has impressed Mr. Duterte that she can deliver the support he needs in the war against illegal drubs. She proved this by a mammoth convergence of groups harnessed in the fight against the scou r ge.
****** Mabalacat groups were numerous sans the absence of Mayor Boking Morales whose efforts to clear his name have been ignored by PNP authorities. Probably when PNP PRO 3 Director Aaron Aquino will be out of Camp Olivas, will the beleaguered mayor get his clearance. We hope for his “acquittal” soon so that investors intending to locate in Boking’s city will have no doubts as to its political stability.
****** Conspicuously enjoying an animated moment with President Duterte was CIAC OIC Pres. and CEO Alex Cauguiran whose Dual Airport System is being pushed by the president. Duterte is also elated with Alex’s efforts to establish a Davao-Clark flight.
In a year end message to Angelenos, City Mayor Pamintuan lambasted aging former city elective officials who are aspiring for elective positions in the next elections.
Pamintuan said he has prepared the crop of young leaders who will take the helm of the next leadership in city governance. The so-called veterans should give way to the new leaders with fresh ideas, dynamism, and vision. He warned strongly against the forces of decadence and opportunism.
Pamintuan said producing fresh leadership in the city who will pursue his development agenda will be his final legacy in the City Hall.
****** Former President and Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo conveys her New Year’s greetings to her cabalen as she pledges her fruitful years ahead in the service of the province. Please don’t misconceive any meaning in her message of goodwill.