The idea of President Rodrigo Duterte seeking a Senate seat in the 2022 national elections has drawn mixed reactions.
Age and his length of service have been singled out as compelling reasons for some to disagree with the idea. On the other hand, for those who are in favor of the idea, they cited continuity and his desire to serve.
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go revealed on Wednesday that the President “might” consider running as Senator in 2022, assuring the public that if elected, the President will continue to prioritize their welfare by helping and serving more Filipinos in need.
Meggy Macion-Santos, business affairs and communications officer of San Miguel Brewery (SMB), said President Duterte has done so much and given his best for the country that is why it’s time for him to come home and rest from a very taxing and stressful job.
“Dabawenyos are looking forward to having him back whether as a public servant or a private citizen,” she said.
Rovie Bullina, president of Bantay Hayop Davao, said service does not have to be equated to politics and that people can all help and continue to serve without a position.
“If he (Duterte) wants to help, he can retire and help,” she said.
Cristina Rasonabe-Molde, a Filipino frontliner from Florida, USA, expressed gratitude to President Duterte for his excellent service to Filipinos and may continue serving the people even in the lower position.
“He already served the highest seat. Okay lang na magpa-elect ug ubos-ubos na position,” she said.
A mom from Toril, Davao City, Eliza Lizardo disapproved of President Duterte running for Senate.
“Dili ko uyon kay gusto ko mo-retire na si Digong, para maka relax na siya, kay sa iyang pangidaron, deserve na niya ang mopahulay from politics. Na-prove naman niya sa tanan ang iyang pagkamaayo na pagka leader, now it’s the best time for him to retire,” Lizardo said.
Meanwhile, Mary Irene Dumagil Paler, a mother from Guihing, Digos City, approved President Duterte’s decision to run for Senate.
“Puwede kaayo siya for senator para continue ang pagbabago labi na ug mag-presidente si Mayor Sara, perfect kaayo naa’y tao sa pinakataas naa pud tao sa ubos,” she said.
On the other hand, supporters of the President also expressed their impressions in case he would run for Senate next year.
“Ayaw na tay…enjoy your retirement. Pero if dili jud ka papugong, then naa ra mi diri musuporta nimo,” Elle Mich posted.
Fritzjan Palamos urged the President to run for Senate and become Senate President.
“Run for Senator sir DU30 para ikaw ang maging Senate President. I will vote for you,” Palamos posted.
According to Go, Duterte is examining several factors before deciding whether or not to run, including his party’s, PDP-Laban, senatorial slate.
“Siyempre tinitingnan din niya ‘yung slate ng administration ng PDP. Kung makakatulong siya na mas maraming mananalo sa part ng administration, iyon ang kino-consider. And of course, ‘yung pagseserbisyo sa bayan bilang inyong Tatay Digong. Ito proven and tested na po ‘yung kanyang pagseserbisyo sa ating mga kababayan hindi lang sa salita kung ‘di sa gawa,” Go added.
