Slovenly use of “Administrative We”

Reading some recent statements by President Aquino’s communications secretary and presidential spokesmen, I suddenly realized with a shock that they have concocted something entirely new in Philippine political history. In parody or imitation of the  “editorial we” of the press, they have invented and constantly use  the “administrative we” in statements to the public about the viewpoint, reactions, opinions, thoughts and sentiments of President Benigno Aquino 3rd and his administration.

Since college, I have observed the miseries and glories of eight Filipino presidents. But I have not seen until now press secretaries and spokesmen daring to speak publicly of themselves and the presidents they served as “we,” overtly hinting that they are colleagues.