MANILA, Philippines?Actor Robin Padilla has expressed his support for the senatorial bid of fellow Muslim, lawyer Adel Tamano, the latter?s office said in a statement Friday.

The endorsement follows that of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari.

Tamano, the first Filipino Muslim scholar-graduate of Harvard Law School and president of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, is a senatorial candidate under the Nacionalista Party.

According to the statement, Padilla?s endorsement came in the form of a handwritten personal note to Tamano dated December 9, 2009. In that note, Padilla wished the young lawyer and former opposition spokesman well in his political journey.

"May Allah guide you and give you success," the note read.

Tamano, for his part, thanked Padilla for his show of support.

"I am extremely grateful to Robin for his trust and confidence," the senatorial candidate said.

"Rest assured that I will continue to protect not only the rights of our fellow Muslims but of all Filipinos. Hopefully, if I get the privilege to serve in the Senate, I will help foster peace and acceptance," Tamano added.

Recently, Misuari made a subtle endorsement of Tamano before hundreds of MNLF commanders and leaders when he invited the latter to be the guest of honor during the 5th Bangsamoro National Assembly. Tamano was the only national politician allowed to attend the event.