Business Log
Posted on November 18, 2006 - Filed Under Business Log, Opinion |
An interview with a three-term California Mayor-Dagupeño
By Eva C. Visperas
I watched ABS-CBN news on the victory of Mayor Jose Esteves in the US mid-term elections last Nov. 7. I felt proud. Everybody in Dagupan should, after all, the winner is a true-blue Dagupeño.
So I tried my luck sending him an e-mail with only 10 questions as I know he might be too busy savoring his third win as mayor of Milpitas. On his second term, I was also fortunate to have had an interview with him through e-mail.
Here's Mayor Esteves' reply:
"Thank you for giving me the opportunity to respond to questions - for the information of our kababayan."
Q - How do you feel about your latest electoral victory?
A - I feel very rewarded and grateful especially after having significant accomplishments for the City of Milpitas - and after having tremendous support and care from many citizens."
Q - How many votes did you get? About your rival's votes?
A - I got 56.8% and my rival got 43.2%.
Q - What makes this last election different from your previous fights?
A - I work my best every election regardless of the opponent or circumstances. I think that the Filipino media in this place has publicized this election more than the previous elections giving the impression that this is the election to watch. I was more comfortable in this election as I had more significant accomplishments and more supporters and contributions.
Q - What’s your formula for success?
A - Excellence in performance all year round and being in the community consistently - these are the best ammunition in a campaign.
Q - How would you describe the hardships you went through?
A - I had challenges when misinformation and lies were used by the opponent tremendously. This was balanced by the presence of many supporters and a long list of strong endorsements for me. We have to keep the record straight always.
Q - After the mayoralty seat, what else do you aim for in life?
A - I always aim to do the best in my current position - so, I aim to continue to be one of the best mayors with extraordinary accomplishments, results and leadership.
Q - What do you think is your edge over your rivals that made voters choose you?
A - The obvious accomplishments I have, the overwhelming support I receive and the honesty and integrity that people saw in me.
Q - Do you somehow miss the Philippines or Dagupan City in particular? If so, what do you miss most?
A - Yes, I do. I have always been proud of my origin, of the Philippines and of Dagupan City. I miss my fellow Filipinos there, their great character. I miss the natural resources, fruits and the air and everything.
Q - What lessons have you learned so far in American politics?
A - Politics could be similar in all places, lots of opportunists, unethical practices and personal attacks. I have learned to focus on real issues, the qualifications of the candidate and the record of performance.
Q - What programs do you wish to continue or introduce in your fresh term?
A - I want to continue to 1) implement our economic development plan to bring/keep more businesses and jobs, 2) support our school district to continue elevate the quality of education for our children, 3) preserve the high quality of life: lowest crime rate, quiet and clean neighborhood, quality city services and programs, ethical conduct of officials and employees, others.
So, there. Our local politicians could learn a lesson or two from Mayor Esteves.
(For past columns, click http://sundaypunch.prepys.com/archives/category/opinion/business-log/)
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