Lakas-CMD: No plans yet for 2010 presidential polls

The ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD) has yet to discuss who will be its standard bearer for the 2010 presidential elections, the spokesman for the political party said Saturday.

Former congressman Prospero Pichay said that though some party members have already expressed interest in running for president, the matter remains to be discussed at the moment.

He added that Lakas-CMD is strengthening its base at present in order to choose the right presidential contender.

Bayani Fernando,chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and Quezon City Mayor Feliciano "Sonny" Belmonte Jr., were reportedly among the Lakas members eyeing the presidency in 2010.

Though Vice-President Noli de Castro is not an official Lakas member, reports said the ruling party might consider him once it selects its official bet.

Meanwhile, Lakas welcomed the desire of Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay to run in 2010 elections.

Binay, the president of the United Opposition, is being considered the "darkhorse" in the next national polls, similar to US president-elect Barack Obama.

Lakas stalwart Heherson Alvarez, however shot down the comparison.

Alvarez pointed out that Obama won because he is perceived to be the “agent of change.”

Binay, on the other hand, is an ally of former president Joseph Estrada who was removed from office due to corruption allegations, Alvarez added.