MANILA, Philippines—It would be hard to refuse an offer from President Rodrigo Duterte to be a part of his Cabinet.
Outgoing Senator JV Ejercito said this Friday after Duterte, in his speech before the Filipino community in Japan where he is currently on a working visit, hinted that he is open to appointing the lawmaker to a Cabinet position.
READ: Duterte hints at Cabinet post for JV
Ejercito suffered a heartbreaking loss in the May 13 midterm elections after landing on the 13th spot, just a seat away from the winning circle.
“It’s an honor to be considered by the President for a cabinet post. If given the chance it will be hard to say no,” Ejercito told INQUIRER.net in a text message.
“If called to serve the President, that means it’s an opportunity to serve the nation once again,” he added.
But for Ejercito, what moved him is when the President remarked: “Sayang ito si JV.”
“Being appreciated by the President no less is an honor,” he said.
The 1987 Constitution states that losing candidates are barred from assuming government positions within a year after the elections.
While waiting for the possible call from the President, Ejercito said he will spend time with his family and help with their family business.
“(I’ll give) time for my family, explore opportunities and help my wife improve our family businesses to keep me busy,” he said.
Ejercito lost the last spot in the Magic 12 to Senator Nancy Binay with less than 200,000 votes. Binay garnered 14,504,936 votes while Ejercito had 14,313,727.
In his six years as a senator, Ejercito said he passed several measures including the landmark Universal Health Care law. (Editor: Mike U. Frialde)
READ: Final, official count: Villar 1st, Binay 12th in Senate race
READ: Universal healthcare now a law