The tough-talking Mayor of Davao City is still not interested on running for President of the Republic of the Philippines but his camp recently released a total of eight names of senatoriables that the mayor would be endorsing and/or possibly form part of Duterte’s senatorial slate if ever the mayor changes his mind.
According to former North Cotabato governor Emmanuel Piñol they have only eyed 8 candidates for Duterte’s senatorial lineup.
The Duterte’s senatorial team will include veteran lawmakers Serge Osmeña and Panfilo Lacson and Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao. Aside from the three well-known personalities, completing the list are Leyte Congressman Martin Romualdez, Party List Congressman Samuel Pagdilao, Congressman Mark Villar, Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno and former Senator Miguel Zubiri.
Mayor Duterte earlier mentioned the name of Congressman Roman Romulo but he reportedly has decided not to pursue his plan to run for the Senate. According to some political observers, the lean senate slate is preferred by the Duterte camp because of financial limitations.
The undecided Mayor of Davao City said he would only support those who believe in his advocacies against crime, corruption and drugs and his efforts to bring to the peace table the rebel groups who have been fighting government for decades. Former Governor Manny Piñol said Duterte is expected to announce his decision this weekend.
