Duterte endorses Bong Go: He will win as senator

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte has expressed confidence that his longtime assistant Christopher “Bong” Go will be a highly-winnable senatorial contender.

During the 16th founding anniversary of the Supreme Tribal Council for Peace and Development held in Davao City last Friday, Duterte said Go will be a formidable candidate.

“Look, he will win as senator... I will bet on it. He would make a great senator. He’s really a bright man,” Duterte said.

Go, currently the special assistant to the President, is being pushed by his supporters to run for a senate seat.

Duterte earlier vowed to support Go “to the hilt.”

Go’s bid is primarily being endorsed by his close friend and communications secretary Martin Andanar, the principal convenor of the Ready! Set! Go! Movement.

According to the President, Go enjoys the support of all sectors, including the military and police.

“Please don’t forget that guy at the back, who has slanted eyes, when the time comes,” Duterte told his supporters.

Go’s appearance at the Senate inquiry on the controversial frigate acquisition project of the Philippine Navy can be his ticket to the Senate, the President quipped at a previous public gathering.

Go, in response, said he was not running as he vowed to serve Duterte until his last breath.

Go said he was very happy with the endorsement. “He is my adviser, my mentor and my boss. I am very, very happy to be endorsed by Mayor Rody. Nawawala ang pagod ko kahit 24 hours magtrabaho (I don’t get tired even if I work 24 hours). But it is still too early to talk about politics. Humbled, challenged and motivated, mag du-duty muna ako kay boss at sa kapatid nating Pilipino,” Go said.

Go, dubbed “3-Pointer ng Bayan,” is promoting sports activities as his campaign against the three main problems of corruption, criminality and illegal drugs.  – With Edith Regalado

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