The belief that Liberal Party (LP) standard bearer Benigno ‘Noynoy’ Aquino III can spur the country forward through sheer inspiration prompted actor-politician Vilma Santos and her husband, Ralph Recto, to shift allegiance from Lakas-Kampi-CMD.

“Our country needs to be inspired... If our people are inspired, they will willingly support and follow the leaders’ vision,” said she.

Vilma added: “I know that Noynoy will not do anything that would tarnish the good names of his parents, Ninoy and Cory. They are considered heroes by our people.”

The 56-year-old multi-awarded actress and her husband are among the most recent personalities to have bolted the administration coalition.

“I’m not just jumping on the bandwagon,” she said defensively, alluding to insinuations that her decision was prompted by Aquino’s seeming ‘win-ability’ based on recent surveys.

Santos said she thought long and hard before coming up with her decision.

“It was a long and difficult process,” she explained. “In every move I make, I try my best to get the sentiments of my province mates.”

She also denied that her pronouncement was made due to her closeness to TV host-actress Kris Aquino, the senator’s younger sister; and Sharon Cuneta, wife of Senator Francis Pangilinan, another renowned LP figure.

“I made this choice not as an actress, but as a public servant. This is real life. I have an obligation to the people of Batangas.”

That said, Santos divulged that Aquino’s younger sister had already called her up to thank her.

“Kris was very happy,” Santos recalled. “She said that our support means a lot.”

As to Edu Manzano’s recent proclamation as the ruling party’s VP bet, Santos said she could only wish her ex-husband well.

“I respect his decision,” she assured. “Edu is intelligent and competent. If he wins, I think he can deliver.”