Moreno ‘staying the course’ on 2022 presidential race, says campaign manager

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso | INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso is “staying the course” on the 2022 presidential race, his campaign manager Lito Banayo said Wednesday.

In an interview on ABS-CBN News Channel’s Headstart, Banayo was asked if there is a possibility that Moreno will give way to another presidential bet.

“No, we’re staying the course. I’m sorry to have to say this because I know that a lot of people are speculating about the possibility of someone withdrawing in favor of somebody else,” he answered.

Banayo added that Moreno is running for president as he does not want to “get caught up” between two opposing factions — the Marcoses and the Liberal Party, of which Vice President Leni Robredo is the chair.

“The reason why Isko Moreno is running for president, together with Doc Willie Ong as his vice presidential candidate, is precisely because we do not want to get caught up in the fight of two warring factions that have controlled political leadership over so many years,” Banayo said.

“We thought and we believe that this elections should be about what candidates should do for the people,” he added.

The campaign manager likewise denied renewed unity talks between alternative candidates.

“Walang nangyayaring (There are no) unity talks. Even the spokesperson of Vice President Robredo yesterday in another program… said that they’re not initiating any talks,” said Banayo.

Based on Pulse Asia’s voter preference survey released in March, former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is leading the presidential race, followed by Robredo.

Moreno placed third among the presidential candidates preferred by voters.

/MUF