MANILA Mayor Lito Atienza yesterday said he has no plan to
run for the Senate, belying reports he is among those being considered in the
administration lineup.
Atienza said he has made known his position to those drafting
the administration slate.
He said he wanted to "concentrate on Manila politics, the
election of our candidates for mayor down to the councilors, and the
continuation of our projects under the Buhayin and Maynila program."
Atienza has yet to name his candidates. Reports said he is
fielding his son Ali for the mayoralty race.
Another reason for his decision not to run for senator,
Atienza said, is because he believes that "a unicameral presidential system is
the best for the country, as it will ensure a more efficient lawmaking system,
and will end the cycle of gridlock that has hampered political and economic
progress for the country."
Atienza said he would campaign for the candidates of the Liberal Party.
Atienza is president of the LP wing which is at odds with that of Senators
Franklin Drilon and Mar Roxas.
