MMDA chief Abalos won’t run for 2022 polls, will back Duterte

MANILA, Philippines — Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos said on Wednesday he would not seek any elective office in the 2022 elections.

“I’m not running for any position. I’m not running for the Senate. I’m not running for mayorship,” Abalos said in a virtual forum.

As a government employee for over 20 years, Abalos said it was time to step aside.

“I’m in government for more than 20 years. I’m nearly 60 years old. So, siguro it’s time na ibibigay ko na lang ito and bahala na kung saan tayo aagusin,” the chair said.

(I’ve been in government for more than 20 years. I’m nearly 60 years old. So, maybe it’s time to yield and face whatever life throws at us.)

Meanwhile, he said that he will support whatever decision President Rodrigo Duterte makes regarding the 2022 elections.

On Tuesday, Duterte accepted his party’s endorsement for vice president in the upcoming elections.

Abalos mentioned that he will back Duterte as his family has a debt of gratitude to the president’s family.

“You know what, malaki ang utang na loob ng pamilya namin sa kanya at sa pamilya Duterte (You know what, our family is indebted to him and his family). You know when my father was in the hospital and my mom died, he really took care of the family,” Abalos shared.

Abalos said he is thankful to Duterte for giving him the opportunity to serve the public through the MMDA.

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