2 senators: Duterte taking 3-day break? ‘About time’

MANILA, Philippines — Two senators on Monday backed the three-day break of President Rodrigo Duterte beginning November 12.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said Duterte would be “recharged” after taking a break.

“About time. His doctor has been telling him to relax even for just a few days. I’m sure he will be recharged thereafter,” Sotto said in a text message to reporters.

Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, meanwhile, said that everyone deserves to take some break from work, noting that it is good that the government announced to the public about Duterte’s leave.

“Even US presidents take a break from work. And that is the president of the world policeman. [Philippine president] can take a break from work by clearing his calendar for a few days,” Pimentel said.

Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte will take a “respite from his punishing schedule.”

Panelo said Duterte would stay in his home in Davao City.

“Well upon the advice of friends, colleagues and the world scene, and most likely upon the advice of doctors also, to take a respite from his punishing schedule,” Panelo said.