Jesus Nicanor “Nicky” Perlas III, a known activist-environmentalist presented himself on as an aspirant for the presidency in the 2010 elections, saying the current crop of contenders lacked the qualifications for the highest post in the land and that he saw himself as an opportunity for change that he was offering to the public was timely, given his experience working with farmers as well as foreign officials.
“There are many Filipinos who have grown tired of elections where there are no real choices. We are tired of always having to choose the lesser evil. This is why I am announcing my intention to run in the 2010 elections,” Perlas told a group of some 50 friends and supporters at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani (Monument of Heroes) park in Quezon City.
Asked if he could win, he said: “Yes, absolutely!” With that envisioned victory, Perlas will ensure a “tight case” against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
“She has damaged this country so much, and I want justice,” he said.
Perlas is known for his environmental work, especially by opposing the opening of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant and the plan to build 11 others during the term of former President Ferdinand Marcos. In 2003 he won the Right Livelihood Award from the Swedish Parliament for his civil society work.
