SAN FRANCISCO, California - Former President Fidel Ramos was still in high spirits over the conduct and results of the May 10 elections, when he visited the Bay Area last weekend.

Ramos told Balitang America that all presidential candidates, except one, had sought his advice during the campaign.

Ramos admires the tenacity of party mate Gilbert Teodoro and believes he will run again for higher office.

“He must continue serving our people, not as an official but as a private citizen, and prepare for the next round. I don’t think he has given up his aspirations for the presidency,” said Ramos.

But Ramos has misgivings about the future of another party mate, outgoing President and now-congresswoman Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. He doubts if she’d even become House Speaker.

“She’s subject to all kinds of inquiries and she’s going to be pressed to answer questions about her previous administration, which would be unfair to her. But since she asked for it, she’s going to get it!” Ramos warned.

Use LEDAC, tap hopes

As for the incoming president, Ramos advises Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III to solve the immediate problems of the country – poverty, education, the economy.

He also calls for the reactivation of the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC), which he put in place when he took office in 1992.

“We met often, as the members of the extended Filipino family. So sana yang attitude na yan sundin ng incoming administration,” Ramos said. He added Aquino should expect more unsolicited advice from him.

Ramos launched a collection of essays, which he calls “sermons,” entitled “U-S-A” or Un-solicited Advice last May 3 in Makati City.

Lauding the automated elections, Ramos also foresees that Aquino’s assumption into power would put the Philippines back on the world map.  

“This will provide a measure of credibility to the Philippine government, which will be headed by him and push the Philippines to a position of higher respect and admiration and dignity in the community of nations.” Ramos explained.

A Lakas party original, Ramos refuses to reveal who he supported in the May 10 elections. Instead, he urges Aquino to build upon the sense of hope that won him the elections. Balitang America