Philippine President Benigno Aquino III was applauded not only by Singaporeans but by his fellow government officials for his leadership while they were struck underground in water facility in Singapore. President Aquino’s impressive courage to lead everyone to use the stairs instead of waiting for the repair of the elevator was an awesome display of a public-servant’s heart.
The Philippine President was inspecting a water facility plant. It was his first stop for the day after his arrival on Wednesday for his official state visit. They toured the Changi Water Reclamation Plant, which handles the city-state’s water system. It was was operated by Singapore’s Public Utility Board.
After viewing all the facilities underground which is equivalent to 24 floors, the elevator breaks down, the technicians tried to repair it. After 20 minutes of waiting the Philippine President took off his jacket and encouraged his fellow officials to take the stairs instead of waiting for the lift to be repaired.
Aquino’s courage and determination was supported by his fellow officials including the Singaporean official who accompanied them underground. The President’s climb along a dusty and narrow stairs was an encouragement not only for those who are present but for all Filipinos as well.
The Singaporeans where impressed by the composure and courage of the Philippine President and his cheerfulness despite the circumstances. He was even smiling when he emerged from the underground facility.
Officials who are with the President were Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr.