MANILA, Philippines - Davao City Mayor Rodrigo "Rody" Duterte clarified that he continues to make rounds only due to prior commitments.
Although Duterte declared he is out of the 2016 polls, he was seen making rounds outside his jurisdiction Davao City. Duterte's activities outside Davao prompted rumors that he is still campaigning.
Duterte's camp denied the allegations saying he is only attending his commitments made ahead of his announcement that he is officially not running for the presidential elections in 2016 last September 8.
"Prior commitments po. May hanggang September 16 na naka-sched," said Romirose Padin, one of Duterte's PR, in a text message sent to Philstar.com.
President and founder of the “Duterte for President 2016” Mar Masanguid said Duterte is scheduled to visit Divisoria on Monday, September 14.
He is also set to grace a rally urging him to run for president at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila on September 15, Tuesday, Masanguid added.
Supporters of Duterte became hopeful as their presidential bet continues to show up on events.
"Wala siyang magagawa. Gusto siya ng tao," Masanguid said in a phone interview with Philstar.com.
Masanguid said he believes there is a chance that Duterte will still run and might be testing his popularity in areas he visited. He added that unlike other candidates, supporters are the ones urging him to run.
A day after his announcement, Duterte made visits in the cities of Malabon and Navotas where supporters urge him to reconsider his decision. However, Duterte remains firm that his decision is final.
Duterte reportedly met with the National People Coalition and visited Muslim communities in Greenhills, San Juan City days after his announcement.
Last September 8, Duterte announced he is officially not running for 2016 elections and claimed he will retire after his tenure as a mayor.
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