In a surprising move, Philippines presidential candidate Boong Go has resigned from the race. Go previously exited a separate VP race after Duterte’s daughter announced her bid.
“I am withdrawing from the race. Having said this, I leave my fate to God and to the Filipino people as I vow to do my best every day to serve selflessly and tirelessly,”On Tuesday, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go spoke to reporters in San Juan City.
Go noted his opposition to the presidential campaign and claimed Duterte “understands and respects”His decision to stand down.
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A long-time deputy to Duterte, Go received the president’s endorsement earlier this month, and was seen as his favored successor to the presidency up until this moment. Go had previously declared a run for vice president, but withdrew soon after the president’s daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, entered the race.
CNN Philippines reporter Go said he supported Duterte, and that he did not endorse anyone else.
According to reports, the lawmaker hinted that he had reservations about his candidacy. Jacinto Paras, presidential advisor, told Rappler earlier in this month that Go was not a good choice. “still contemplating [his bid] because he is overwhelmed with so much work as a senator,”He also stated that his doubts were dispelled when he received support from several visiting governors.
The latest political shakeup comes after Duterte declared that he would run for a senator’s seat in the upcoming May 9 race, as he was not eligible for reelection as president under Philippine law. With Go out of the running, top contenders for president include Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. – the running mate of Duterte’s daughter and the son of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos – sitting VP Leni Robredo, as well as boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, who retired from the sport in September to run for the presidency.
Although vice-presidents and presidents are typically elected on the same ticket in Philippine elections (the party that is running the election), the votes for each position are cast separately. This means candidates from different parties may end up winning the respective positions.
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