After constant declarations of his retirement from politics, President Duterte contends for a senatorial position in the 2022 national elections.
On Monday, Duterte filed his certificate of candidacy through his representative Atty. Melchor Aranas. He substituted Mona Liza Visorde who is under the Pederalismo ng Dugong Dakilang Samahan (PDDS).
Duterte’s proxy filed his candidacy thirty minutes before Comelec closed entry for substitution of candidates.
PDDS is in alliance with Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) division where Duterte serves as chairman. On Saturday, the party disclosed Senator Bong Go as their presidential bet. Duterte and Go are running under PDDS to avoid legal complications while disagreements among the factions and ruling party are ongoing.
After announcing his plans to run for vice president last August, people were surprised when Duterte announced his plan to retire after his term ends in 2022. Since this announcement, PDP-Laban continuously pushed him to rejoin Congress.
Just over the weekend, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar announced that Duterte would be running for VP against his own daughter. However, spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte would compete with his daughter.
Duterte is currently facing an ICC investigation over his war on drugs that killed thousands of Filipinos. A spot in the senate will permit him to influence national policies, vote on international treaties, and influence other members of the senate.