Who will sacrifice political ambition for country?

In my commentary, “United we stand — remembering a hero” (3/26/22), I gave a subtle hint to the presidential candidates not named Marcos. I recalled the sacrifice of Salvador H. Laurel who gave up his ambition, so Cory Aquino could become president in 1986. Laurel was more qualified to become president then — a veteran lawyer, honest politician, experienced public servant, and freedom fighter, versus Tita Cory, a simple housewife.

Initially, Cory Aquino endorsed Laurel but later public clamor persuaded her to run, putting Laurel in a dilemma. Run and both of them would lose. Laurel gave way to Tita Cory and sacrificed his ambition to become a true hero.

Fast forward to today, and this time I will not be subtle. It seems that the candidates against Marcos are dense and ambitious. Masyadong bilib sa sarili. Sen. Manny Pacquiao is raw and does not have enough experience in public service. He needs ajinomoto seasoning. Same with Isko Moreno. He just started as mayor of Manila and should finish his first term before aspiring for higher office. Too ambitious. Sen. Panfilo Lacson is not corrupt and has more experience, but he does not have public support. The other candidates—whose names I refuse to recall—are just nuisance candidates.

As a senior citizen who has voted in 10 previous presidential elections, I urge these three candidates to withdraw now and leave the fight to Marcos vs. Leni — si Magnanakaw versus si Maganda. This is the best chance for Leni to win.

CRISPIN C. MASLOG
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