Aquino a weak leader, Robredo a political eunuch'

MANILA, Philippines - Allies of former President Arroyo on Wednesday lashed out at President Benigno Aquino III for mishandling the August 23 hostage crisis.

Zambales Rep. Mitos Magsaysay said Aquino's ineffective style of leadership has led to various problems in his own Cabinet.

"It manifests the weak leadership of Mr. Aquino," she told reporters at the House of Representatives.

Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said Aquino has rendered Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo a "political eunuch" when he was stripped of his power to supervise the Philippine National Police.

The minority lawmaker said the PNP law specifically names the DILG chief as the chair of the National Police Commission and not a DILG undersecretary as claimed by Aquino.

Lagman also questioned Aquino's statement that Robredo is merely on an acting capacity in the DILG and is on probation.

"Robredo's nomination wasn't submitted to the Commission on Appointments on the pretext his appointment is an acting secretary but you will recall when his appointment was announced on July 9, there was no condition. It wasn't subject to condition. It was only temporary. It could be second thoughts. It is basically ambivalence on his part and always (a) delayed reaction to crucial events," he said.

He added that if Robredo has any self-esteem left, he should resign with alacrity and save himself from further embarrassment and the DILG from a damaged leadership.

Lagman said the minority still wants to cooperate with the administration but it will be hard to cooperate with something wrong.

Magsaysay advised the President to tap the best people for top posts in government. "Nobody possesses ultimate knowledge. You can always tap the best wisdom, knowledge, skills...Maybe that's what President Aquino should do," she said.

She said that aside from Robredo, there are other officials appointed by the President who are really incompetent.

"It's not just Secretary Robredo who should resign. It's already admitted and Robredo cannot wash his hands. Kahit sabihin mo sa amin na in-charge ka lang sa local governments di ba si Manila Mayor (Alfredo) Lim is with the local government. Dapat nagdialogue siya kay Lim. Would we still entrust government to these kinds of people? No one is indispensable. Anybody can be removed."

source abs cbn