A 'spare tire' as Driver in Chief

A 'spare tire' as Driver in Chief

Humility and introspection are clearly not Vice President Noli de Castro's principal assets. At a press conference and a solo interview his camp let out the announcement that he was prepared to take over the presidency if President Arroyo leaves office.

Of course the law on succession calls on the Vice President to become President in case of death, permanent disability, removal from office or resignation...however (the interview) leaves the impression that the Vice President is priming for a takeover. There is a perception that the 'spare tire' wants to become the Driver in Chief.

On the issue of leadership and governance, some stalwarts of the opposition and thoughtful Filipinos have said that it is precisely de Castro's preparedness for the grueling demands of the presidency that gives them pause on the ouster of Arroyo.

Five years from now, in 2010, de Castro could become presidential material if he works at his job and acquires the experience, maturity and intellectual faculty for the presidency. Right now, he is unprepared for the job. -- The Manila Times