Duterte filed his certificate of wí†hdráwal before the Commission on Elections on Tuesday afternoon — just hours after his ally and longtime aide Senator Bong Go officially withdrew from the presidential race.
With this development, Malacañang said Duterte's retirement goal will push through next year.
"After over four decades in public service, the President plans to retire from government to spend more time with his family when his term ends in June 2022," acting spokesperson Karlo Nograles said in a statement.
Duterte's wí†hdráwal from the Senate race would also allow him to focus on COVID-19 response efforts, Nograles added.
"He likewise views this as an opportunity to concentrate on efforts to ensure transparent, impartial, orderly and peaceful elections in May," the Cabinet secretary also said.
'Personal decision'
The President's loved ones and allies said they support his decision."The filing of candidacy and wí†hdráwal is a personal decision. We can only support that decision," his daughter, vice presidential aspirant and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte said.
Go, for his part, admitted he was saddened by the turn of events, but also urged the public to respect the President's choice. He said Duterte will also focus on ensuring a smooth transition for the country's next leaders.
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2021/12/14/Duterte-wí†hdráws-Senate-2022-bid.html
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