Joma Sison’s reported support for Duterte ‘non-issue’ to AFP

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines on Tuesday declined to comment on the reported support of Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison for Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, a possible presidential candidate for the 2016 elections.

“Joma Sison’s statement of support for Mayor Duterte is non-issue to us. Mayor Duterte is known for his ability to work with various groups whether aligned to the right or left or those in the center of mainstream society. It is a political skill he has developed and demonstrated over the years to serve his constituents and government,” AFP spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said in a text message.

Last week, a video presented at an event in Davao City showed Sison praising Duterte.

But on Tuesday, Sison clarified in an email statement that he was not endorsing Duterte’s possible presidential bid.

He explained that the video was taken months ago by a Davao journalist and asked him for his opinion of Duterte as a presidential candidate.

“I answered in the following manner: He is highly qualified. He has integrity and a strong character and is determined to do good for the country,” he said.

“It was not possible for me to endorse his presidential candidacy because he had not yet made up his mind to run for the presidency. Even until now, up to the writing of this note, he is reported not to have yet made up his mind to run for the presidency,” Sison said.

Duterte, who has connections with the CPP-New People’s Army, said he is against armed struggle despite his leftist principles.