Life story, movie star father lift Poe in Philippines' race

[...] it is the popularity of her late father, regarded as the king of Philippine movies, and her humble beginnings that appeal to the masses in this country where presidents have traditionally come from the landed gentry and political elite.

If elected president on May 9, Poe tells voters she will offer a free lunch program for all public day care and elementary schools, more job opportunities for women and more aid to farmers.

Temario Rivera, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, credits Poe's popularity to her fresh public personality untainted by corruption allegations, her ability to connect with ordinary people and her father's popularity.

Some have been upset by the support she has received from a wealthy businessman who allegedly profited from a tax imposed on impoverished coconut farmers during the martial law regime of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

At a recent rally, dressed in her trademark immaculate white shirt and blue jeans, Poe told the working class audience that those who question her being Filipino only need to look at her round nose, short height and dark hair.

"The problem with political candidates is they are all honey-tongued during election," said Ramon Castro, a technician who favors another presidential candidate but acknowledges Poe's lead in polls.