NEWSFLASH

GLORIA ARROYO’S SON FOR PAMPANGA VICE GOV

San Fernando, Pampanga, April 27, 2000 The son of Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo announced that he would run for Pampanga vice governor in next year's elections.

Mickey Macapagal-Arroyo admitted in a telephone interview that he would seek the vice gubernatorial post probably under his mother’s political party Lakas-NUCD, as running mate of Gov. Lito Lapid.

Mickey, who is still a bachelor, said he has consulted his mother about his political plans.

"I tell her everything, including what I am doing here (in Pampanga) and the people who are pushing for my candidacy," he said.

While some local leaders have reportedly urged him to run for either governor or congressman, Mickey said he is opting to run for a lower post since he is just starting in politics.

"Huwag muna bida. Nagsisimula pa lang ako (Not yet the leading role. I'm just starting out)," he said.

Mickey spent his birthday at the Bulaon resettlement site to help in the "supplemental feeding" program for children of lahar-displaced families.

He also handed out a P200,000 check from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), headed by his mother (who is concurrently DSWDSecretary). The amount is for the construction of a senior citizens' center at Bulaon. Mickey also turned over wheelchairs to two disabled children.

Mickey is considered by local officials to be mainly responsible for the earlier release of some P3.1 million from the DSWD for the housing needs of lahar victims at the Ayala resettlement in Magalang town.