Man brings Philippine flag to polling precinct, votes for opposition senators

MANILA, Philippines — A 67-year-old man, who brought a Philippine flag while exercising his right to suffrage, said he will vote for Otso Diretso senatorial bets to have “checks and balances” in the Duterte government.

“Otso Diretso lang,” Wilfredo Villanueva told reporters in Las Piñas City Science High School.

“Unang-una, sobra na yung namumuno. Walang check and balance yung mga tao niya puro yes man, yes man. Pangit. Hindi ganyan ang demokrasya,” he added referring to President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

Wilfredo Villanueva, 67, brings Philippine flag as he cast his vote in Las Piñas Science High School. /Consuelo Marquez

Villanueva said he also brings his Philippine flag while attending Anti-Duterte rallies.

Otso Diretso senatorial candidates are reelectionist Senator Sen. Bam Aquino, Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, former Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, former House Deputy Speaker Erin Tañada, former Solicitor General Pilo Hilbay, human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, election lawyer Romulo Macalintal and Marawi civic leader Samira Gutoc.