By Marita Moaje / Philippine News Agency
MANILA – Former Vice President and broadcast journalist Noli de Castro has withdrawn his bid for a Senate seat in next year’s elections, saying he has had a change of plans.
In an official statement posted on the Facebook page of his daughter, People’s Television Network (PTV) General Manager Kat de Castro on Wednesday (Oct. 13), he said he can continue to help give voice to ordinary Filipinos through broadcast journalism, in which he has had a decades-long career.
“Nagkaroon ng pagbabago ang aking plano. Nais kong iparating sa lahat ng aking mga kaibigan at supporters na naghahanda na sanang tumulong sa akin, na nagpasiya akong hindi na ituloy ang aking kandidatura,” de Castro’s statement read.
De Castro filed his certificate of candidacy for senator under Manila Mayor and presidential aspirant Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso’s Aksyon Demokratiko party on the last day of filing on Oct. 8.
With the decision to withdraw his Senate bid, he however assured that his intention to serve the country has not changed.
“Kasabay ng pagdarasal sa Poong Nazareno, napag-isip-isip kong mas makatutulong ako sa pagbibigay ng boses sa ating mga kababayan sa pamamagitan ng pamamahayag,” he said.
His daughter, Kat, assured that her father is in good health, saying there is nothing to worry about.
“He has personal reasons for withdrawing his candidacy. He’s now spending time with family, most especially with his grandchildren. What’s his next move? Wala pa. Pahinga muna siya,” she said.
In a statement, the Aksyon Demokratiko party expressed sadness over de Castro’s withdrawal from the race but respected his decision.
Ernest Ramel, the party’s chairperson, said de Castro remains a member of the party.
Meanwhile, Domagoso’s chief of staff, Cesar Chavez, confirmed his resignation from the camp and announced his decision to return to his career in radio broadcasting.
He said the Manila Broadcasting Company management offered him a position as early as March this year and that he had informed Domagoso about his intention to accept the job.
“Salamat, Yorme, sa pag-unawa at pagkatataon makapagtrabaho sa Maynila. Napakaraming magagaling at matitino sa City Hall. Maraming salamat sa inyo,” Chavez’s post read. (PNA) – jlo
