"This administration deserves our support. This is not only for President Duterte but for the entire country," the Vice President said in a speech at the "Tapatan sa Aristocrat" forum in Manila, a few hours before she was scheduled to pay a courtesy call on Duterte in Malacañang.
"As the Vice President, I believe that my No. 1 responsibility is to help rally everyone behind the new administration," she said.
Robredo stressed that divisiveness in the government ranks would not do the nation good.
"We are in the cusp of something big and this is not yet time to let go. There are things that may seem impossible but when we all work together that’s when the impossible becomes possible," she said.
The Vice President also noted of pressing issues in the country such as poverty, unemployment, and inclusive growth.
"We have to fix them right away. Not tomorrow, not toward the end of six years, but now because these problems represent real suffering of people on the ground," she said in her prepared speech.
"What is the use of having a high national income when the majority of our people cannot even access that income?" she asked.
Robredo emphasized the need for root causes of poverty to be attacked while the leaders continue to work on the economic standing of the country.
"We cannot just wait for growth to trickle down to the poor. This has been done elsewhere in the world and we can do it here," she said.
Despite without having a cabinet position, Robredo said she could contribute to the distribution of economic gains to the secluded parts of the country by collaborating with the private sector in addressing hunger and food security, universal health care, rural development education and people empowerment.
"We are inviting all groups of individuals who have the passion in these areas to come to office and partner with us. Our doors are open. We need to discuss the best way to tackle our problems. Collaboration is our best resource right now," she said.
The Vice President will also push for the passage of freedom of information bill in an attempt to erase corruption. She would also ensure the creation of better jobs and ending of contractualization; and peaceful talks with China over the issue of territorial rights.
Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer
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