Duterte’s dare: Vote for Mar

President Duterte

BORACAY ISLAND—President Duterte dared the electorate in the 2019 midterm polls to vote for former Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, who is seeking a Senate seat, to see if he has a better way of dealing with the drug menace.

The President made the statement on Thursday night during the distribution of certificates of land ownership award to land reform beneficiaries on Boracay Island.

Reminding local officials not to get involved in the illegal drug trade, Mr. Duterte said he would have no problem if the public go with Roxas for a change.

“Don’t do it during my watch, not while I am President. Lie low for three years, and if you want to come back, then do it,” he said.

The President then told his audience: “Vote for Roxas; he’s an Ilonggo. Vote for him, there’s no problem there.”

2016 presidential race

After losing to Mr. Duterte in the 2016 presidential race, Roxas largely stayed out of the limelight for two years. Last month, he filed his certificate of candidacy for senator under the Liberal Party.

Should Roxas run again for President, Mr. Duterte said, the people may vote for his defeated rival to see if he could end the illegal drug trade.

“I think Roxas will run again. Why don’t you try and see for yourself? You can only measure a man’s stamina for doing a particular activity for his fellowmen,” Mr. Duterte said.