Aquino to add star power to campaign

Television host Kris Aquino and other showbiz endorsers of Liberal Party presidential candidate Senator Benigno "Noynoy” Aquino III are expected to hit the campaign trail next month to add star power whenever he goes on the stump.

This was revealed by Aquino, who is also seeking a private meeting with religious leaders such as Bro. Mike Velarde of the El Shaddai group and Pastor Apollo Quiboloy of the Davao-based Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) in the next few weeks to further consolidate his lead before election day.

In an interview with reporters in Davao City, Aquino said he expected Kris to join his nationwide campaign starting March 26, when the campaign for provincial, city and municipal positions start.

"I don’t think she will be with us all the time. She and Boy Abunda were part of the group that made the story board for my ads. This group is self-funded,” said Aquino, who expected Kris’ husband, basketball star James Yap, to tag along in the campaign.

Aquino said that other stars would jump on his campaign wagon starting next month, including possibly actress Sharon Cuneta.

"She has declared it (joining his campaign) several times in public,” said Aquino.

Aside from the entertainment world, Aquino was also keen on getting support from the religious world.

"We are talking to all groups because we hope to include them in our movement for a new nation. We are keeping our communication lines open and if they have any issues against, we will explain,” said Aquino.

Aquino said he has yet to talk to Velarde, who endorsed his senatorial bid in 2007.

Aquino is set to meet with Quiboloy in Davao next month and attend KJC’s worship service.

Aquino has already met with Iglesia ni Cristo leaders and he expects to meet with them again soon.

"I think they received us very graciously. Whether or not we earned their support is another matter. I have no complaint, I am very grateful we were given a large amount of time,” said Aquino, who also planned to meet with Muslim leaders in the next few weeks.

But his main target remains the dominant Catholic group in the country.

"I make it a point to meet the bishop in the provinces I visit,” said Aquino said.