In a demonstration of his support for his allies running for Senate in the 2022 elections, President Rodrigo Duterte graces the final day of the filing of certificates of candidacy on Friday.
MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday graced the last day of the filing of certificates of candidacy for the 2022 elections to show his support for his allies running for senators.
He arrived at the Sofitel hotel less than two hours before the filing period closes at 5 p.m.
Former Cabinet members who are running for Senate were photographed with him and raised their hands, including:
-Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar
-presidential chief legal counsel Salvador Panelo
-Information and Technology Secretary Gringo Honasan III
-Agriarian Reform Secretary John Castriones
-Anti-corruption commissioner Greco Belgica
He was also seen with Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta and actor Robin Padilla.
They are all part of the slate of a faction of the PDP-Laban led by Alfonso Cusi, the Energy Secretary.
Duterte previously expressed his intention to run for the vice presidency in the 2022 elections, even going so far as signing a certificate of nomination and acceptance of the PDP-Laban.
However, he later backtracked and said he decided to retire from politics instead after he steps down as chief executive.
Senator Bong Go instead will run as the vice presidential candidate of the PDP-Laban.
READ: Duterte ‘retiring,’ Go runs for VP – but eyes still on Sara
The Cusi faction of the ruling party has not yet named a presidential candidate for the 2022 polls.