Duterte reiterates decision not to run for president

MANILA, Philippines – Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on Monday apologized to his supporters as he stressed his decision that he will not run for president.

Duterte said he apologizes for disappointing his supporters who worked hard on supporting him during his rounds across the country spreading the benefits and advantages of his federalism advocacy.

“I therefore beg for everyone's kind understanding and acceptance of my sincerest apologies. After all, there was no ambition for me to aspire for the presidency. The country does not need me. I find no need for it too. I guess it is fate that wills that our long journey together should end this way,” Duterte said.

Although Duterte closed his doors in seeking the highest post in the country, Duterte said he is still mulling on reelection as a mayor for the 2016 polls if his daughter does not agree to run for mayor.

“If Inday Sara agrees to run for mayor, I will retire at the end of my term in 2016. If she does not, the option to be mayor again is on the table,” Duterte said.

He said he sees himself ending his public service life in Davao City.

“Time and again, those who believed in me, and in the cause that I advocated, and continued to advocate, advised me to go for the country's presidency because that is the destiny that awaits me. But I believe that my destiny is to end years and years of public life in the service of Davao City and every Dabawenyo,” Duterte said.

"When all is said in the wake of this decision, perhaps we could find comfort in the thought that this is indeed a beautiful day to end a wild dream," he concluded.

This is the second time Duterte made an announcement that he is not running for president. On September 7, the mayor also declared the same decision as “final” and “categorical."