Ricky Recto backs out of Batangas gubernatorial race

Mark Leviste (left) and Ricky Recto (right). (Photo courtesy of Leviste)

MANILA, Philippines — Former Batangas vice governor Richard “Ricky” Recto has backed out of the gubernatorial race in the province.

Recto, an independent candidate, filed a statement of withdrawal before the Commission on Elections in Batangas on Friday.

Ricky Recto’s statement of withdrawal from the Batangas gubernatorial race (Photo courtesy of Mark Leviste)

A copy of Recto’s notarized statement of withdrawal was shared by Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste to the media on Saturday.

Recto did not disclose the reason for his withdrawal in the document, but he reportedly threw his support for incumbent Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, who is running for reelection.

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