Prioritize welfare of general public, Duterte tells 2022 poll winners

 (NIÑO JESUS ORBETA / INQUIRER file photo)

MANILA, Philippines — Outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday appealed to the new set of elected leaders to prioritize the general public’s welfare “above everything.”

In a taped briefing, Duterte gave his congratulations to the next leaders “well in advance” since the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has yet to proclaim winning national candidates.

“I am hoping you will serve the Filipino people with all your heart and ability and prioritize the welfare of the general public above everything,” he said.

Duterte, meanwhile, told losing candidates to continue to serve the Filipino people.

“To the candidates who have failed to secure seats, I thank you as well for your participation in this electoral process. You may not have won this time but I hope you will continue to serve our people in your capacity as leaders in your respective sectors and communities,” he said.

He also congratulated the Filipino people for making the 2022 elections “successful because you have made your will known by performing your sacred right and duty to vote.”

Duterte called on the public to support and watch the Comelec and the civil society partners to ensure that the electoral process will end in a “very correct manner.”

The Philippines held its national and local elections on May 9, 2022.

Based on the Comelec’s transparency server, which reflects 98.35% of election returns, presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is poised to be the next President with over 31.1 million votes.

Duterte’s daughter, Davao City mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio is also set to be the next vice president with over 31.5 million votes.

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