Vice President Sara Duterte revealed on Saturday that she encouraged her brother, reelected Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, to consider running for either Speaker or Minority Leader in the 20th Congress.
“I told Congressman Pulong, ‘Maybe you want to run for Speaker,’” Duterte shared in a media briefing, according to Jonathan Andal’s report on 24 Oras Weekend. She added that Pulong has yet to respond, likely weighing his chances of securing the post.
“If you don’t win as Speaker, then go for the minority leadership,” Sara added, noting that she hasn’t endorsed any candidates for Speaker or Senate President, nor has anyone sought her support.
Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker David “Jay-Jay” Suarez expressed strong confidence that Speaker Martin Romualdez will retain his leadership post, citing a manifesto of support signed by at least 240 House members from major political blocs including Lakas-CMD, NUP, NPC, NP, PFP, and PCFI.
Suarez emphasized the need for political stability in the coming years, especially with crucial legislation expected. He clarified that the recent meeting among party leaders was not a “loyalty check,” but merely a “meet and greet.”