President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” C.

Aquino III

Shara Mae Andres

Noa Selene Marie Avellanosa

Patricia Marie Barruela

Josielyn Catamisan
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................... 3

2 Biography............................................................................................................................................. 4

3 Achievement......................................................................................................................................... 7

3.1 for the year 2011…....................................................................................................................... 7

3.2 for the year 2012............................................................................................................................ 8

4 Controversy........................................................................................................................................ 9

4.1 Where are you PNoy?............................................................................................................................. 9

4.2 Misunderstood smile………………………………………………………............................................. 9

4.3 Viral photo………….………………………………………………………............................................. 10

4.4 Where are you PNoy? Part 2.………………………………………………............................................. 10

4.5 Hacienda Luisita.…………………………………………………………............................................. 11

5 Values Learned…............................................................................................................……………………….12

6 Conclusion...........................................................................................................................................................12

7 Recommendation...............................................................................................................................................13

8 Bibliography.........................................................................................................................................................14
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INTRODUCTION

In a country with myriad problems, it is definitely not simple to preside. People would not only oppose nor

support but even some would, in reality, not care. In the Republic of the Philippines, a country known for its

prosperous natural resources, a lot of Presidents have reigned and have made a lot of amendments and changes

in a lot of places but still a lot of people are not contented. The country is still facing the same problems, for

instance poverty. There is an exceptionally wide gap between the rich and the unfortunate and for the past years

nothing has changed. Illegal machinery, poor educational system, poverty and corruption are just few of the

difficulties faced by Filipino people which some say are impossible to eliminate. But, will the present president,

President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” C. Aquino III, or well known as PNoy, find the solutions to these problems

and make things possible? As a Catholic country, most believe in the saying, “Nothing is impossible.” President

Benigno Aquino III is actually starting to make things happen from cleaning our political machinery to serving

his masters, the Filipino nation, through easy acquiring of health cards and the like. Though many have said that

they do not feel any improvement in their personal lives, statistics presented by the media shows positive results

of an improving economy. But just like any regular person, the president faces controversies and issues. Some

of these issues are his smoking habit and even to a family owned business land, the Hacienda Luisita. Anyhow,

people must be in one with President Benigno Aquino III to make the greatest difference that can possibly

happen in history.
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BIOGRAPHY

The 15th President of the Republic of the Philippines, Benigno Simeon Aquino III, has come to stand for

Filipinos’ reinvigorated passion to build a nation of justice, peace, and inclusive progress.

Aquino—the only son of democracy icons Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino and President Corazon

Aquino—has in different junctures throughout his life responded to the challenge of acting with and serving the

Filipino people.

In 1983 after the assassination of his father, he returned from exile to the country to help show the way

for the EDSA People Power Revolution—the nonviolent and prayerful revolution by ordinary people that

toppled a dictatorship and restored Philippine democracy.

In 1998, Aquino entered public service to make sure that the democracy his parents fought for would

bring changes in people’s lives. He served as Representative of the 2nd District of Tarlac from 1998 to 2007. In

May 2007, he joined the Philippine Senate, wherein he worked to bring about legislative initiatives anchored on

the protection of human rights and honest and responsible governance.

The most despondent days perhaps in Aquino’s life took place in 2009 when his mother passed away

from cancer after suffering for nearly a year. Her demise prompted mourning from all over the country. And yet

it also awakened a remembrance of the values she stood for. It stirred up the people’s yearning for a leadership

that is honest and compassionate, and a nation that trusts and works with its government.

Immediately after her wake, people began to call on Aquino, urging him to run for presidency in the

2010 elections to continue his parents’ work. Signature drives and an outpouring of support through yellow

ribbons and stickers went full blast, convincing him to run.

After a spiritual retreat at the Carmellite Monastery in Zamboanga City, Aquino responded to the call to

make the people’s passion for change the driving force behind a new government. On September 9, 2009, the

40th day after former president Cory Aquino’s passing, he officially announced his candidacy for president at the

Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan—where his mother took oath on the final day of the EDSA People Power
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Revolution. “I want to make democracy work not just for the rich and well connected but for everybody,” he

said.

On June 9, 2010, the Congress of the Philippines proclaimed Aquino as the President Elect of the

Philippines. In his inaugural address on June 30, 2010, he told the Filipino people: “We are here to serve and not

to lord over you. The mandate given to me was one of change. I accept your marching orders to transform our

government from one that is self-serving to one that works for the welfare of the nation.”

The presidency of Benigno Aquino III has been marked by a hardy dedication to bringing about shared

progress by doing things the right way. Aquino’s determination to lead the government and the nation towards

the straight path has been the catalyst for unprecedented economic growth, which has trickled down to the

margins of society through improved government services, reforms in the education system, and conditional cash

transfers for the poor; an inspired campaign for good governance and justice as evidenced by the prosecution of

corrupt and abusive government officials; and the empowerment of every citizen so that they may participate in

building a nation of hope and opportunity.

“My hope is that when I leave office, everyone can say that we have travelled far on the right path, and

that we are able to bequeath a better future to the next generation. Join me in continuing this fight for change.”

President Aquino was born on Feb. 8 1960. He studied from elementary to college in the Ateneo de

Manila University, and finished a degree in Economics in 1981.

Aquino’s classmates remember him as a “quiet” yet “friendly” student. Gene Manalastas, a batch mate,

said: “He could not go to parties with us on weekends because he was always visiting his dad in prison.”

His father, then a senator and opposition leader to President Ferdinand Marcos, was incarcerated after

the declaration of Martial Law in September 1972. In confinement, the senator wrote his son a letter:

“The only advice I can give you: Live with honor and follow your conscience.

“There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them

with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength. Son, the ball is now in your hands.”

In 1980, his father was allowed after a series of heart attacks to receive medical treatment in the United

States. Aquino joined the family in a period of self-exile until 1983—when they had to return to the Philippines

after the assassination of his father.

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Following his return to the Philippines, Aquino served as assistant of the Executive Director of the

Philippine Business of Social Progress, an institution that coordinates the efforts of private companies to help

struggling Filipinos. He was also Assistant Retail Sales Supervisor of Mondragon Philippines, and was the

Assistant Promotions Manager of Nike Philippines.

Aquino continued to work in the private sector even during the presidency of his mother. He was the

Vice President of the Intra-Strata Assurance Corporation all through her term.

In August 28, 1987, Aquino was wounded by five bullets when rebel soldiers assaulted Malacanang

Palace in an unsuccessful coup attempt. One of the bullets remains embedded in Aquino’s neck—an enduring

reminder of the sacrifices one must make to defend democracy.

As the Representative of the 2nd District of Tarlac, and legislator in the House of

Representatives, he worked to pass a number of bills and resolutions to uphold public accountability and address

the people’s pressing concerns. These include: House Bill No. 4251, which grants annual productivity incentives

to all workers in the private sector; House Bill No. 4397, which strengthens the regulatory power of the

Department of Trade and Industry to effectively enforce consumer laws; and House Resolution No. 788, which

creates a Congressional Oversight Committee to check and study the use of intelligence funds by government

agencies.

Aquino served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. He, however, relinquished the post

after calling for the resignation of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo when the Hello Garci Scandal was

exposed.

In the Senate, Aquino worked to make sure that accountability processes in the government were at

work. He spent long hours examining the General Appropriations Act of 2009, and proposed key amendments to

make sure that public funds were prudently spent. Aquino vigorously participated in Senate investigations on the

abuses of government officials, and fought for justice for victims of human rights violations.

Aquino, then chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Government, introduced substantial

amendments to the Cooperative Code to make it more responsive to the needs of the people for which the code

was enacted. Among his proposed measures were: Senate Bill 2035, which seeks to raise standards in the

construction of all public infrastructures by penalizing contractors of defective infrastructures; and Senate Bill
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2160, which seeks the amendment of Government Procurement Act.
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ACHIEVEMENTS

2011

“Just this year, the number of Filipinos who experienced hunger has come down. Self-rated hunger has

gone down from 20.5% in March to 15.1% this June—equivalent to a million Filipino families who used to go

hungry, but who now say they eat properly every day.”

“Our once low credit ratings have now been upgraded by Moody’s, Standard and Poors, Fitch, and Japan

Credit Ratings Agency—in recognition of our prudent use of funds and creative financial management. These

improved credit ratings mean lower interest on our debts. Our innovative fiscal approach has saved taxpayers 23

billion pesos in the first four months of this year. This is enough to cover the 2.3 million conditional cash transfer

beneficiaries for the entire year.”

“And allow me to share more good news from the Department of Energy: having rid the DOE of wang-

wang, we have revived the confidence of investors in our energy sector. 140 companies, all ready to participate

in the exploration and strengthening of our oil and natural gas resources, can attest to this. Compare this to the

last energy contracting round in 2006, which saw the participation of only 35 companies. Just last Friday, a new

contract was signed for a power plant to be constructed in the Luzon grid, so that by 2014, our country will have

a cheaper, more reliable source of energy.”

“Even in agriculture, what was once an estimated yearly shortage of 1.3 million metric tons of rice is

down to 660,000—that’s almost half of the original amount. Even with our buffer of 200,000 metric tons as

contingency against natural calamities, it is still significantly less than what was once the norm.”

“Our efforts to enhance the capabilities of our men and women in uniform are already succeeding. In the

first six months of 2010, we had 1,010 cases of car and motorcycle theft. Compare that to the 460 cases in the

first six months of 2011.”

“The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act was signed in 2003. Unfortunately, because the government did not

properly implement it, only 29 individuals were convicted in a period of seven years. In just one year, we have

breached that amount, convicting 31 human traffickers. Perhaps, this is the “sea change" that US Secretary of

State Hillary Clinton was referring to; and because of this change, the Philippines has been taken off the Tier 2

Watchlist of their Trafficking in Persons Report. ”

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“Our foremost pledge to the Filipino people was to create more jobs, and we have delivered. In April

2010, the unemployment rate was at 8%; in April 2011, it was at 7.2%”

2012

“Roads are straight and level, and properly paved; this is now par for the course.”

“Sirens only blare from the police cars, from ambulances, and from fire trucks—not from government

officials. This is now par for the course. The government that once abused its power is finally using that power

for their benefit.”

“For the record, we have had 44, and the index hovers near or above 5,000. In the first quarter of 2012,

our GDP grew by 6.4 percent, much higher than projected, the highest growth in the Southeast Asian region, and

the second only to China in the whole of Asia.”

“Based on data from the DSWD: 1,672,977 mothers now get regular checkups; 1,672,814 children have

been vaccinated against diarrhea, polio, measles, and various other diseases; 4.57 million students no longer

need to miss school because of poverty.”

“The 5.2 million poorest households identified by our National Household Targeting System will now

fully benefit from PhilHealth’s programs, free of charge. Because of the Department of Health’s No Balance

Billing Policy, treatment for dengue, pneumonia, asthma, cataracts—as well as treatments for catastrophic

diseases like breast cancer, prostate cancer, and acute leukemia—can be availed of for free by our poorest

countrymen.”

“There are about a million new entrants to the job market every year. The jobs we have produced within

the past two years total almost 3.1 million. As a result, our unemployment rate is declining steadily. In 2010, the

unemployment rate was at 8 percent. In April 2011, it dropped to 7.2, and dropped further to 6.9 this year.”

“Crime volume continues to decline across the country. In 2009, over 500,000 crimes were recorded—

this year, we have cut that number by more than half, to 246,958.”

“At this moment, the Armed Forces is likewise canvassing equipment such as cannons, personnel

carriers, and frigates. Before long, the BRP Ramon Alcaraz, our second Hamilton class cutter, will drop anchor,

to partner with the BRP Gregorio del Pilar. We are not sending paper boats out to sea. Now, our 36,000

kilometers of coastline will be patrolled by more modern ships.”

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CONTROVERSIES

WHERE ARE YOU, PNOY?

How could anyone forget August 23, 2010, the day when almost everyone in the Philippines was glued

to their tv screens, not because of some intense tv show, but because it was what we call today the Manila

Hostage Crisis. It was on that day when Rolando Mendoza hijacked a tourist bus carrying Hong Kong nationals

and even Filipinos in an attempt to get the government's attention. Mendoza was accused of robbery and

extortion, or the so-called “hulidap”, the practice of some police of planting evidence and seeking a pay-off from

the victims, which resulted to him being expelled from his job as a police officer. He said he was innocent and

appealed to be reinstated, but eventually, he grew tired of waiting for justice. That was when on Aug 23 at 10am,

he hitched a bus ride carrying tourists and stopped at the Quirino Grandstand where all the bloodshed took place.

At least 8 people died from the tragic incident. While all this was happening, everyone was wondering, “Where

was, Pnoy?” Him being missing in action from the incident sparked a riot on social networks, stating why hasn't

he done anything about the situation. PNoy later on said that he was indeed monitoring everything, but could not

do anything so as to not meddle with the police authorities, and that there was already a crisis-management head

and group commander that were more capable in determining what to do.

MISUNDERSTOOD SMILE

As PNoy examined the site of the hostage taking, several photos taken of him would show that he was

smiling. Even during a news briefing, he seemed like he was grinning as he talked about the traumatic incident.

For others, this showed him being insensitive towards what had just happened. Who would be happy over

something like that? In PNoy's defense, he said that him smiling was his form of defense mechanism. He smiles

when he's happy, yet he also smiles when he's exasperated. He has apologized for his misunderstood smile and

for having offended anyone, and lets them know that he does take no joy over the whole situation.
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VIRAL PHOTO

An unflattering photo of Pnoy surfaced around July 2011 which caused quite a stir over the internet.

People were quick to give their two cents' worth regarding the photo. Generally, they weren't impressed by the

sight of the ash tray and pack of cigarettes and PNoy's uncluttered desk. He was thought of as a hypocrite

because how could he ban smoking when he himself cannot obey the rule. Raissa Robles, the one who took the

infamous picture, got to talk to Manolo Quezon, the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic

Planning Office Undersecretary, who defended PNoy. He said that the picture was taken a few years back, not on

2011. It wasn't until July 2011 when smoking has been banned, that's why it shouldn't be an issue that PNoy was

smoking. Next that was heavily criticized was PNoy's almost empty desk. Robles compared his desk to that of

Barack Obama's in her blog. Obama also had pictures of him working on a barely messy desk (sans the ash tray

and cigarettes), but that doesn't mean that he doesn't do anything for his country. Quezon said that just because

their desks were not filled with tons of paperwork and not as messy as what everyone expects them to be, that

doesn't automatically denote laziness. Abigail Valte, presidential spokesperson, also defended Pnoy regarding his

desk, saying that PNoy intentionally clears his desk for he takes his work home and continues on with it from

there. Another presidential spokesperson, Edwin Lacierda, said that one shouldn't easily jump to conclusions

regarding Pnoy's work ethics based on one bad photo.

WHERE ARE YOU, PNOY? PART 2

It was on December 2011 when the typhoon Sendong caused a lot of damage to the Philippines (at least

600 deaths). And at the same time, PNoy was at a Christmas party in Malacanang Palace, partying the night

away, with actress Valerie Concepcion as one of the main performers. Again, people are disappointed by how

PNoy is yet again missing in action during a time like that. Valerie Concepcion was quick to apologize to

everyone, but journalist Inday Espina-Varona said that there was no need for Valerie's apology. Stopping the

party wouldn't have helped the victims anyway. Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte defended PNoy stating

that he in crises like this, PNoy does take action over the matter, but he doesn't feel the need to make his physical

presence felt.
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HACIENDA LUISITA

There has been ongoing feud between the Cojuangco's and the families of the farmers of the Hacienda

Luisita regarding ownership over it. Even way back in 1967, the farmers believed that by that time, the hacienda

would be turned over to them since by then, the Cojuangco's would have paid back the money they borrowed

from the government. No land distribution took place which led to the creation of the United Luisita Workers

Union. Dona Metring, Cory Aquino's mother, said that there were no tenants in the hacienda when they took

over. There were no beneficiaries, therefore, the land belonged to them. Fast forward to today, and yet, the grip

of the president's clan over these vast tracts of land remain stronger than ever, wielding political and military

might to prevent the farmers from reclaiming the lands they rightfully own. The Supreme Court has actually

made a decision regarding the matter, saying that the farm workers are the true owners of the land. But instead of

recognizing the unanimous ruling of the Supreme Court, the Cojuangco-Aguinos have mounted legal obstacles

which would delay the implementation of the decision. The palace insists that Pnoy should no longer be dragged

to the issue for he has done his fair share of dealing with it since last year. He intends to move on and respects

the decision of the Supreme Court.

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VALUES LEARNED

We live in a country where work is most needed and none of those words are. Not only should it be the

president who is working for the benefit of the nation but it is best if the whole of the country will unite. People

should not be complaining and complaining and complaining and instead be part of the solution. We must all

do our part because it is for our own good. Rich or unfortunate, old or youth, must all respect one another since

everyone, though not given the same opportunities, are treated with equal rights. With respect, people will be

slowly opening their hearts and be willing to help one and all in our own simple ways that will bring the country

that is separated by bodies of water and other natural barriers together. Though we must care for our own

personal lives, we must not forget the needs of the other people who are not as blessed as we are and be there for

them when they need us the most. It is as important to mind our actions so as not to offend others and to be well

with many. But to be able to do these, all must love, accept and fix their own. Life is not perfect so there is

nothing wrong in accepting your mistakes.

CONCLUSION

Our country is facing myriad problems and PNoy have just started to solve some of them like our slow

developing economy and poverty. Surveys showed that there are more tourists and investors in the country

showing that the country has now a better relationship in the global market compared to the previous years when

the Philippines owed a lot of debt. More budgets for education have been allotted and many more problems are

one by one attended to. Though faced by so many controversies and issues, PNoy does not forget to do

everything for the people he is working for. But PNoy could not do everything on his own. We must, at this

point, have realized that it is not too late to show our effort and help our President make a change that will

definitely have a great impact and influence to the Filipino people.

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RECOMMENDATION

After a thorough research and analysis of data, the following recommendations were made:

For President Aquino, may he continue to strive for the betterment of our country. As shown in his

achievements, he already made some improvements. But then, it is time for a change, real change. Fulfill the

promises he made. Solving poverty and corruption cannot be done with a snap of a finger. He needs our help and

support because he cannot fix all the problems by himself. Focus on the major problems like education and

poverty. Make a move for the out of school youth and may there be many jobs for the people in order for them to

earn money. Our population isn't the reason of poverty, rather, it is the lack of jobs. The administration must

implement orders to resolve the Philippine’s problems. May Pnoy prove us that he deserves to be in his position

and may our country be led towards the right path. Despite the controversies and criticisms, may he remain a

loyal president to our country. Don’t let negative things bring you down.

For the Filipino people, we have voted and elected him as president so we must learn to cooperate with

him. We are a part of one nation and we must work hand in hand. The president only serves as our head and we

must not throw all the responsibilities at him. May we have reasonable expectations for him and for our country.

Can we just let him prove himself first before we criticize him? We all know that it is not easy to fix all the

problems of our country. We should help him to achieve the goals for development. As individuals, we should

not put all the blame to the government in our problems. Whatever happened to us are results of our choices. Let

us show support our president as long as we know that it is for the common good.
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