On the economy, the U.S. cumulatively is our most important investor, most important trading partner, most important sort of tourists, and we have now a tie that will... a link that will be here for many, many years to come, and that is the big Philippine-American community in the United States - three million of them.

In the time one is given, the steward must make the most of the talents one is given by the Lord.

I was invited by President Bush to come to the United States on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the mutual defense treaty.

It is simply the truth that the political system that I am part of has degenerated to the point that it needs fundamental change.

The Philippines has no policy that demands sacrifice of human lives.

We must promote solid traits such as work ethics, a dignified lifestyle, matching actions to rhetoric, performance rather than grandstanding.

Now I ask you to make your sacrifice. Take a gamble. I took the plunge and I'm glad of it.