After his Friday meeting with new United States Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas Jr., leading presidential candidate Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III has to confront a waiting list of several other heads of state who are all anxious to have an audience with the future commander-in-chief.

This developed as Aquino reiterated his view that “America remains the biggest economy in the world,” prior to his meeting with Thomas.

“What happens in America’s economy impacts the rest of the world. It is still our biggest trading partner normally in the top 3 in the top slot. Since job generation is the first platform of our governance, we have to maintain good working relationship with the biggest market as one of our highest priorities,” Aquino emphasized.

Aquino also confirmed he is set to meet another head of state today, Saturday. For security reasons, he refused to disclose the venue and the identity of the person he is meeting.

“There are several other heads of state who have requested a meeting. But I have to beg off that is only until I am able nurse my raspy voice,” the senator from Tarlac said.

The list does not yet include US President Barack Obama.

Many people point out striking similarities between Aquino and Obama. It has been pointed out that the two won clear mandates on the promise of change, which sparked tremendous popular support, particularly among young voters. (Roy C. Mabasa)