MANILA – Unsure of his role, Vice President Jejomar “Jojo” Binay has disclosed that he will not attend the welcome party prepared for the heads of states or their representatives who are delegates of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit to be held this week.
“The protocol is for the Vice President to be always part of the welcoming party for heads of state on a ‘state visit,’ not during the APEC meeting. I will be attending the reception,” Binay tells reporters.
“All that I am doing now is to look up above and wait for my role,” he adds.
Although he will not be present at the welcome party, the Vice President will still welcome delegates upon their arrival to the Philippines.
“It’s the Vice President who is tasked to meet the arriving heads of state. That’s part of my job,” he says.
United States President Barack Obama, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzon Abe are among the 21 economic leaders who have confirmed their attendance to the APEC Leaders’ Meeting.
Meanwhile, no other presidential candidates in next year’s national elections have formal participations in the APEC meetings as only Cabinet secretaries have roles to play.
It can be noted that Binay and administration standard-bearer Manuel “Mar” Roxas II are both former Cabinet members. Since his resignation in June, the Vice President has then openly criticized the Aquino administration which he regards as insensitive and inept.
Set aside differences, show hospitality
Binay believes that the Philippines will be a good host at the annual gathering, pointing out the beautiful country and the hospitable people.
“First, we have a beautiful country; it should really be visited by tourists. Second, the inherent hospitality of the Filipinos because no matter how heavy our problem is, we still manage to smile. So, these are the basic traits of the Filipino that we really should be proud of,” he says.
The Opposition leader also urges political parties to ‘set aside differences’ and espouse ‘unity’ during the APEC week.
“This is still our country. Even if [President Benigno ‘Noynoy’ Aquino III’s administration] and I do not agree on several matters, I will still attend receptions,” he says.
“Let us set aside politics and do what needs to be done for the good of the country,” he adds.