Duterte endorses Chiz Escudero’s bid for a Senate comeback

Former Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has endorsed the candidacy of Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero, who is seeking a return in the Senate in the May 9 elections.

In a video message, Duterte said Escudero could contribute greatly in the crafting and key pieces of legislation, especially in a time where the country is facing the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I support and endorse Chiz Escudero as he runs for senator. His eloquence, intelligence and passion to serve the Filipino people will really help us pass crucial legislation and implement reforms in the Senate,” he said.

“I hope that you will add him to the list of senators in the coming elections. Mabuhay ka, Chiz Escudero!” Duterte added.

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Escudero thanked Duterte for his endorsement and trust, saying this will encourage him to work harder to improve the plight of many Filipinos who were adversely affected by the pandemic.

“Umasa po kayo, at ganoon na rin ang taongbayan, na puspusan po ang ating pagtatrabaho upang paigtingin pa ang serbisyo sa publiko. Hindi lang po ito nakakataba ng puso, ngunit isang malaking karangalan at inspirasyon upang ipagpatuloy natin ang mga napagtagumpayan na ng Duterte Administration. Salamat po!” he said in a press release.

(Rest assured that I will work hard to serve the public. Not only does this warm my heart but it is a great honor and inspiration to continue the achievements of the Duterte administration.)

“Beyond political colors, iisa ang ating hangarin na makapaglingkod ng tapat at epektibo. Sa dami ng pagsubok na kinakaharap ng bansa, kailangan ng pagtutulungan ng bawa’t isa. Ika nga, dapat all hands on deck para malampasan natin ito,” Escudero added.

(Beyond political colors, our only goal is to serve truthfully and effectively. With the many challenges that the country is facing, we need to join our forces. We should have all hands on deck to overcome this.

Escudero served as a senator for two terms. In his 2022 bid, he is running under the agenda of strengthening local government units. He said he is also offering his long years of experience as a public servant to the next administration in solving the many economic and public health problems brought about by the pandemic.

The President’s daughter, Davao City mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, who is also running for vice president, has endorsed the senatorial bid of Escudero.

The tandems of Vice President Leni Robredo and Senator Kiko Pangilinan; Senator Ping Lacson and Senate President Tito Sotto; and Senator Manny Pacquiao and Rep. Lito Atienza have adopted Escudero in their senatorial slates.

JPV