Former President Fidel V. Ramos (FVR) on Friday said he is proud to be considered by newly sworn-in President Rodrigo Duterte as his mentor.
Ramos also said that Duterte’s presidency is his right as well as a challenge.
“Of course I am very proud about that (to be Pres. Duterte’s ‘mentor’). But I am sure he is also proud of himself, prouder than any of us for having won the opportunity to serve the Philippines as President, as President, as Commander-in-Chief, as overall father of the nation,” Ramos said in ambush interview after the change of command ceremonies which saw Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa officially assume the position of Philippine National Police chief.
Ramos was one of the first people Duterte mentioned during his inaugural address on Thursday.
READ: Duterte tells FVR: Thank you for making me President
“President Fidel Ramos, Sir, salamat po sa tulong mo (thank you for your help in) making me President,”Duterte said.
Ramos recalled convincing the former Davao City mayor to run for the presidency back when the city hosted a trade exhibition for the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP–EAGA).
READ: Duterte nearing decision, meets with Ramos, 2 parties–source
“Isang sinabi ko: “We must always make sure that we will work and guarantee a better future for all Filipinos and for our beloved Philippines. No. 2 ‘yung kanyang nabanggit na, ‘Mayor Duterte it’s about time that Mindanao produces a Philippine President.’”
“I’m glad that he’s now there as our Commander-in-Chief.”
Ramos, who served as Philippine President from 1992 to 1996, said he prays for Duterte’s success.
“Let’s all support him, so he will make good with maximum success but also minimum defects,” Ramos said. Kristina Casandra Tayam/IDL/rga
