MANILA - Senator Loren Legarda is prepared to answer all allegations regarding her ownership of a high-end condominium in Manhattan, New York, President Benigno Aquino said Monday.
Aquino, in a press statement, expressed confidence in Legarda who is running for reelection under the administration's Team PNoy.
"Throughout this campaign, Loren Legarda has enjoyed the overwhelming support of voters, which is in keeping with her longstanding status as a member of the Senate and a public official," the President said.
"She has a long and credible record of advocacies, which is the foundation for her public support."
"I am confident that she is not only prepared, but will do her utmost best, to answer any and all allegations raised against her," he added.
Aquino said Legarda exemplifies Team PNoy. "Team PNoy's composition is based on a shared commitment to honesty, transparency, and accountability in public service."
"Loren Legarda has never backed away from the duty of every person who works for the people, to live up to our common obligation to stand by these three basic principles of governance. I know that our fellow citizens will recognize this and that they can separate the facts from mere rumors or opinions," the President added.
Malacañang earlier said Legarda will not quit the administration's senatorial slate amid allegations that one of her fellow Team PNoy candidates is behind a black propaganda against her.
"Naniniwala po kami na si Senator Legarda po ay isang team player," Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said Friday.
Lacierda, however, declined to comment on the alleged mudslinging within the administration slate, saying that the campaign team would be in a better position to respond to the issue.
He also declined to comment on Legarda's alleged failure to declare a property in her statement of assets, liabilities and net worth.
Legarda earlier disputed allegations that she owns a New York condominium unit that she did not declare in her SALN.
She also insisted that her controversial condominium unit in Manhattan, New York is not solely hers despite US public documents saying otherwise.
Legarda said the accusation is merely part of black propaganda that a fellow Team PNoy bet launched to discredit her.