Palace on Cayetano’s snap election proposal: ‘Wishful thinking’
Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Monday dismissed Sen. Peter Cayetano’s proposal for a snap election for officials in the executive and legislative branches as “wishful thinking,” saying there is no time to entertain personal agendas.
In a Viber message to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro was asked to comment on the senator’s suggestion, which came amid political turmoil sparked by allegations of massive corruption in government.
READ: Cayetano urges gov’t officials to resign, pushes for snap elections
“It is just his wishful thinking. We do not have time to talk about one’s personal desires,” Castro said.
“The president is busy working for the country and helping those affected by the earthquake and typhoon. He has no time for this kind of politicking. Let us all focus on the needs of the people, not just on personal interests,” she added.
Cayetano made the call in a Facebook post on Sunday, saying, “What if we all just resign and allow a snap election for the president, vice president, Senate, and Congress, with one important addition—no incumbent from the above can run for one election cycle?”
READ: Senators weigh in on snap election call; Sotto warns of chaos
According to him, Filipinos “have lost trust in government and government officials.”
He even said that “politicians are suspects.”
“If we truly serve them, then starting over shouldn’t scare us. Because real change starts with radical honesty—and the courage to admit when it’s time to step aside,” he added.
Anti-corruption protests have erupted since early September following revelations that several government officials and lawmakers were allegedly involved in anomalies related to flood-control projects.
Those implicated include Marcos’ cousin, former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, both of whom have stepped down from their posts amid the allegations./mcm
