Palace respects Duterte decision not to join presidential race

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang yesterday said it respects the decision of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte not to run for president in next year’s elections, but refused to comment on his tirades against the camp of Liberal Party standard bearer Manuel Roxas II.

 “At the end of the day, it’s a personal decision of the person to run or not for any position,” deputy presidential spokesman Abigail Valte said. 

Duterte disappointed his supporters when he did not show up at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) main office in Manila on the last day of the filing of certificates of candidacy on Friday.

In an interview over various radio and television stations, Duterte said he never intended to run because he wanted to retire from politics.

He also took a swipe at Roxas, saying he should not be president because he and his camp were engaged in dirty politics. He said Roxas’ camp was behind rumors that he has throat cancer.

Valte said it would be up to the spokesmen of the Koalisyon ng Daang Matuwid to respond to Duterte’s allegations.

She said Akbayan Rep. Ibarra Gutierrez, one of the coalition’s spokesmen, has denied Duterte’s accusations.

The administration has been saying its straight path campaign will ensure victory for its candidates, adding they have a proven track record. 

‘Sayang’

Vice President Jejomar Binay said it was unfortunate that Duterte did not run for president.

“Sayang. Sayang talaga (Such a waste),” Binay said on Friday. “Mayor Duterte is a role model in the executive.”

He said Duterte is a qualified contender to the highest post in the land, but his decision to run for reelection would allow him to continue his plans for Davao City.

There were reports a private plane carried Duterte from Davao landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at 1 p.m. – With Janvic Mateo, Rudy Santos