| Over the years, political figures have come and gone. | | | | and R.A. 9262 or the "Anti-Violence Against Women |
| Some have retired, lost their bid for reelection, or | | | | and their Children Act." In February 2004, he was |
| passed away. But with the ever-changing face of | | | | elected as president of the Nacionalista Party, the |
| Philippine politics, one name stands out ever strong | | | | oldest political party in the county. |
| and reliable --- SEN. MANNY VILLAR. | | | | Sen. Villar has also received numerous awards and |
| I grew up hearing his name mentioned from time to | | | | recognition such as the Ten Outstanding Young Men |
| time. The image of him being the speaker of the | | | | in 1986, Agora Award for Marketing Management in |
| house is etched in my memory. He has been a | | | | 1989, Most Outstanding CPA by the Institute of |
| constant source of news, both good and bad. His | | | | Certified Public Accountants in 1990, and Most |
| achievements have been followed closely by critics | | | | Outstanding UP alumnus in 1991. |
| and political analysts, and his flaws, like that of any | | | | But what makes him a striking politician to me is his |
| other politician, have been feasted upon by | | | | humanitarian aspect. His advocacy on the welfare of |
| detractors. But this has not daunted him to continue | | | | the poor, the OFWs, women and children has earned |
| serving his fellowmen and country. His track record | | | | him my utmost respect and admiration. I believe that |
| as a public servant is unparalleled. In 1992, he got | | | | the core of public servant's mission is his or her care |
| elected as congressman of Las Pinas and had | | | | for humanity. |
| authored R.A. 8289, or the "New Magna Carta for | | | | I would not be surprised if Sen. Manny Villar will run |
| Small and Medium Enterprises". He had also worked | | | | for the presidency come 2010. His career has been |
| for the passage of the following: Clean Air Act, Retail | | | | carved so well in preparation for such tremendous |
| Trade Liberalization Act, New Central Bank Act, New | | | | job. The presidency is a challenge, no less, and with |
| Securities Code, and New Banking Act. As a senator, | | | | experience, dedication, and passion, I am certain that |
| he also authored the following laws: R.A. 9178 or the | | | | he would be able to carry the country to a new and |
| "Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Act"; R.A. 9189 | | | | greater height. |
| or the "Oversees Absentee Voting Act"; R.A. 9208 | | | | Why is he worth my vote? It's simple. He has earned |
| or the "Anti-Trafficking of Persons Act, RA 9257"; | | | | my respect, admiration, and trust. |