Davao City – Former President Rodrigo Duterte has called on his successor, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to uphold fairness and a level playing field in the upcoming May elections. Speaking at the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Laban‘s first National Coordination Meeting on Thursday night, Jan. 30, Duterte emphasized the need to avoid any form of threats or violence during the election process.
“In this upcoming election, I hope that the President, if he hears me, will give us a fair shake, ensuring a level playing field for all, and will not allow threats and violence,” Duterte stated.
The meeting, held in a hotel in Davao City, was attended by over 300 officials, members, and allies of the PDP-Laban, where they introduced their senatorial candidates, including Rep. Rodante Marcoleta, lawyers Jayvee Hinlo and Jimmy Bondoc, and Pastor Apollo Quiboloy of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.
Duterte, who has backed his own Senate slate, expressed confidence that his candidates would win, despite acknowledging the challenges of organizing party activities without significant financial backing.
Meanwhile, Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte emphasized that voting for PDP-Laban candidates would be a statement against the current administration, accusing it of oppressing the people. He also encouraged candidates to demonstrate their contributions to the country, even with limited campaign resources.
The event was also attended by Senators Christopher “Bong” Go, Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, and Robinhood Padilla, alongside the local party-list Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL).
