By Alec Go
President Rodrigo Duterte has accepted the endorsement of his party Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan’s (PDP-Laban) for him to run for vice president in the upcoming 2022 national elections.
The party statement released Tuesday (Aug. 24) said Duterte has agreed on the nomination following “popular calls” to ensure “continuity of the administration’s programs during the past five years.”
“President Rodrigo Roa Duterte agreed to make the sacrifice and heed the clamor of the people, and accepted the endorsement of the PDP Laban Party for him to run as Vice President in the 2022 National Elections,” the statement read.
Among the programs cited by the party are the 10-point Socio-Economic Agenda, Build, Build, Build Program, and the fight against illegal drugs, corruption, and insurgency.
PDP-Laban Executive Vice President and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said they will have a convention on Sept. 8 in Bulacan to discuss their plans.
The following personalities are also included in their initial senatorial lineup:
Lower House Speaker Rodante Marcoleta
Information & Communications Technology Secretary Gregorio Honasan
Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade
Public Works & Highways Secretary Mark Villar
Speaking in his Aug. 24 briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed that Duterte met on Aug. 23 evening with PDP-Laban president and Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi and Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Dino.
Duterte is set to hold another public address tonight where he is expected to mention his possible vice presidential bid.
“Siguro ‘yung kumpirmasyon kung tatakbo siya sa pagiging vice president or hindi, manggagaling na mismo sa bibig ng Presidente,” Roque said.
Duterte has already expressed inclination to join the presidential race during a meeting with several PDP-Laban members on July 6. However, he said he wants a presidential bet to be an ally.
Read more: Duterte may run for VP, wants next ally president
“I will not promise kung ako. If I run as vice president which you want me to do so, maybe I will. But huwag na tayong mag-promise ng mga pabahay, lahat. We just address the present agony and sorrow of a Filipino,” he said.
“If I run for vice president tapos ang presidenteng na-elect ay hindi ko kaibigan, the situation would arise na sabi ko I would remain an inutile thing there,” he added. -rir
