The left-leaning Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) issued a challenge to the widow of FPJ, Susan Roces, to continue what her late husband has started and continue to fight for the poor and the downtrodden. According to Danilo “Ka Daning” Ramos, secretary general of the group, “Ms. Roces should now carry the torch of FPJ, as an icon of the masses, this does not necessarily means that she has to run for office, but she should continue “Da Kings” legacy,”

“For example, FPJ’s stand against the WTO should also be adopted by Susan and can be further expanded for the call of peasants for genuine land reform. As can be ascertained by her statements this past few days Ms. Roces, has the character of a leader and an honest one at that, compared to Gloria’s duplicity,” added Ramos.

As for his part Willy Marbella, spokesperson of KMP, “though many quarters are saying that Poe’s electoral protest is moot and academic because the presidential aspirant is already dead, it should still be pursued for the interest of the public. As far as Mr. Poe is concerned in the case, the practical reasons for the electoral protest may be dead, but for moral reasons it has to be continued, the Filipino masses has to know the truth. Also if proven that indeed Gloria cheated then she should be replaced by the next in line or if Noli de Castro is proven that he also cheated then the one who should be president would be Loren Legarda,” 

“We cannot be governed by liars and cheats. This much the government owes the people,” added the peasant leader.

Meanwhile Carl Anthony Ala, public information officer of KMP, also issued a challenge to Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson “if he knows the shady and corrupt acts of the Macapagal-Arroyo regime he should now spill the beans and not be a party to all this corruption. He should not wait for the time that the people has already acted to oust her because he may be construed as an accomplice and a paid hack of the regime,” # # #
 

KMP - 21 December 2004