Cayetano to remain Duterte ‘partner for change’

MANILA, Philippines — Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano has vowed to remain an ally of President Duterte despite his ouster as House speaker earlier this month.

In a Facebook post on his 50th birthday last Wednesday, the former speaker said he will remain a “partner for change” of Duterte who brokered the takeover of Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco of the House leadership pursuant to the term-sharing agreement they forged at the outset of the 18th Congress last year.

“There is still a long way to go in this journey before we see your vision of a safe and comfortable life for all Filipinos become a reality – but rest assured that through God’s grace we will be your partners for change, every step of the way,” Cayetano said.

He also thanked the President for trusting him and reminding him that “in public service – there are no regrets.”

“I am proud to serve God and country. Proud to have stood beside you from the very beginning, and I continue to appreciate all the opportunities that have been given me – in Congress, in the Department of Foreign Affairs and in organizing the very successful SEA (Southeast Asian) Games. It is truly a blessing to be of help to our kababayans and to the government, especially during the darkest times of the pandemic,” the lawmaker stressed.

Cayetano made the statement as he posted a video greeting from Duterte.

In the video, the President told Cayetano not to “feel bad” about recent events, pertaining to his ouster as speaker.

“You have achieved so much and you need not really feel bad about everything that transpired during the last few days. You did your best and next time, given the chance, I am sure that you will succeed and do better. Today, I just want to say, Mabuhay ka! Happy birthday!” Duterte said.

Cayetano was the running mate of Duterte in the 2016 presidential elections.

He earlier refused to give way to Velasco for their term-sharing agreement on the speakership, but later admitted that he “misunderstood” the President’s wish during their Palace meeting for Velasco to take over the House leadership.