Time for Aquino to prove his abilities

'Noynoy' has challenges in fight against corruption, budget deficit

MANILA -Benigno Aquino was cruising to victory in the Philippine presidential election on Tuesday, but now needs to prove he has the strength to push his reform agenda, fight corruption and cut a large budget deficit.

The country's first automated election ran far better than many had expected - particularly after a technical problem last week - and the quick, clear result allowed investors to bypass fears of prolonged political instability.