Aquino to campaign for opposition than run in 2019 polls

Former President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday said he will actively participate in the campaign for the opposition slate in the 2019 midterm elections instead of running for a post.

“(Kung) tatakbo ko baka itinatayo ko lang sarili kong bangko eh,” he said when asked if he has plans to run in next year’s polls.

Aquino also said he “plan(s) to help all those who have similar views, similar advocacies” and help in the campaign of a genuine opposition that would provide constructive criticisms and checks and balances to the government.

He also said the Liberal Party has yet to finalize its senatorial slate.

Asked if his former running mate, ex-Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II would run for Senate, Aquino said he has yet to discuss this with Roxas.

READ: Mar Roxas dodges questions about his plans for 2019 national elections

Aquino issued the statements before the start of the Mass for the 35th death anniversary of his father, former senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr. at the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Parañaque City.  /muf