‘Bato’ dela Rosa blasts critics: Who are you to judge my intention to run for president?

Screenshot from Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa’s interview with Senate reporters on Monday.

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa on Tuesday slammed his critics who were questioning his intention to run for president amid allegations that he was just holding out the post for presidential daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.

Speaking in an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel, dela Rosa said that it is only himself who can judge his intention to vie for the presidential seat.

Dela Rosa earlier admitted that he only received the instruction to file his candidacy hours before the deadline for filing of certificate of candidacy (COC) on October 8.

“Who are you to judge my intention. It is only me na makakasagot nyan kung gusto ko ba o hindi,” Dela Rosa said in an interview with ABS-CBN News Channel.

“The mere fact that I filed my COC is an overt manifestation of my clear intention to be the president of this Republic,” he added.

Further, Dela Rosa said that the intention to run for presidency does not necessarily have to be a long-term intention, as it can be formed last-minute.

“Bakit, ang intention ba kinakailangan long-term intention? Hindi tayo pwede makakabuo ng immediate intention?” Dela Rosa said.

“Kinekwestyon nila yung aking bona fide intention to run for president dahil nga wala akong preparasyon. Yes, totoo yan hindi ako nagp-prepare pero ang intention ay malaking debate yan, hindi ako abogado pero very debatable issue ‘yan,” he added.

Dela Rosa earlier said he is willing  to “give way” to Duterte-Carpio should she later decide to join the presidential race.

Political parties are allowed to substitute candidates until November 15.

EDV