Duterte says he will speak out vs drugs, crime even in retirement

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday that he would still speak out against criminality, especially the illegal drugs trade, even in retirement.

“We’re going to retire, but I will be just in Davao and if there is a compelling need for me to talk, I will do it. My drift is just really to retire quietly. No more politics for me,” he said in his taped weekly “Talk to the People” briefing that aired on Monday.

“All that I aspire for, all that I want is a better country for this generation and especially for the next generation. If I have one advocacy, it’s really to protect the next generation. I will not hesitate by action. I’m referring to drugs and criminality. It’s all intended to protect you,” Duterte added, speaking in a mix of English and Filipino.

President Rodrigo Duterte (File photo by ELOISA LOPEZ / Reuters)

He thanked Filipinos for putting their trust in him, describing his presidency as a “fruitful and productive journey.”

Duterte likewise called on the public to support the incoming administration of President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. — “so that they can build on the gains we have achieved in the past six years.”

“My fellow Filipinos, the next administration needs all our support and solidarity. Let us, therefore, give them our goodwill and our best wishes as they endeavor to lead our country towards a better future,” he added.

Duterte will step down from office at noon on June 30, after which Marcos will assume the presidency.

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