MANILA, Philippines – It was business as usual for vice-president-elect Jejomar Binay after his proclamation on Wednesday.
On Thursday, Binay joined an annual mass for officials and employees of the Makati City hall, which coincided with the ending of the novena to the sacred heart.
After mass, Binay went straight home where he once again received visitors.
Binay met with his team to finalize plans to use the old Makati City hall to house his offices for vice-president.
The Mayor’s office, which he used from 1986 to 2001, will be his private room.
Binay adds that aside from the fact that he knows the place well, it is easily accessible to the public.
“Ito [ay] para sa mga masa. Malapit sa kalye [J.P. Rizal St.] itong city hall. Gusto ko maging aktibo ako; kung maraming dudulog at hihingi ng tulong at least open ‘yung opisina ko,” he said.
Binay also says they plan to have the entire structure renovated and opened to the public.
“I will be an active vice president, a public servant,” he added.
However, Binay will stay for the meantime at the current office of the vice president located at the Philippine National Bank financial center while the old city hall is being renovated.
Aside from his plans of changing the location of his office, Binay says he is also studying the condition of various local government units around the country to find out how he can help them since he promised this during his campaign.
He, however, says he has not yet talked with President-elect Aquino about what post he will be given in the latter’s Cabinet.
But while Binay earlier said he wanted the Department of Interior and Local Government portfolio, he says he will not feel bad if Aquino decides to give it to someone else.
He adds, as vice president, he has no right to dictate on the president of the country.