CEBU CITY – Cebuano businessmen and industry leaders collectively agreed that a possible NoyNoy-Mar tandem is a formidable team to reckon with for the Presidential and Vice-Presidential bid in the coming May 2010 elections.

“It’s a very strong slate,” Eric Mendoza, President of the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry admitted when asked to comment with regard to the imminent Presidential bid of Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino and Senator Manuel “Mar” Roxas as his probable running mate for Vice-President under the Liberal Party.

“I think it will be a perfect match. Mar with his extensive experience in Government and good track record should complement well Noynoy’s also clean track record. Noynoy needs a good team to carry out the legacy of his parents,” Mendoza said in an interview Thursday.

Last Wednesday, Roxas announced he will no longer seek the Presidency and will instead support Aquino should the latter run for the country’s top position.

Philippine Retailers Association-Cebu Chairman Jay Aldeguer raised his opinion that Roxas’ move “signifies his commitment for the country’s reformation.”

“I hope this will translate into a deep cleansing of the nation,” Aldeguer said.

This weekend, Aquino has submitted to the advice of his sisters to undergo a "spiritual retreat" to seek divine guidance on his plans.

In a separate interview with Manila Bulletin, Prudencio Gesta, former President of the Cebu Bankers Club also see that at present, an “Aquino-Roxas” tandem is a “tough team” as both are gaining popularity among surveys, especially for Noynoy, for whom “Cory magic” seems to be working well in his favor.

But Gesta said it is “premature” to determine whether their popularity as candidates for President and Vice-President will translate into actual votes.

“It’s hard to comment on whether or not they will win because they have not yet presented their platform. Hopefully, what they can offer this country is a governance of integrity and honesty, with due reference to their past records of performances,” said Gesta.