CEBU, Philippines — Vice President Leni Robredo called off an earlier plan to grace the rally of Ace Durano and Hilario Davide III in Talisay City, Cebu yesterday.
As this developed, Durano announced his support for the presidential bid of former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“Since the Partido Pilipino sa Pagbabago of my partner, gubernatorial aspirant Ace Durano, has decided to support another presidential candidate, it is obvious that he is bound to follow the organization’s endorsement,” said Davide in a statement posted on his social media account.
This was the reason why Robredo would no longer attend their grand rally.
Durano, in a separate statement, apologized to those who expected the vice president to attend their gathering.
Durano explained that the Partido Pilipino sa Pagbabago, the national party that he is part of, recently posted a manifesto of its support for Marcos.
“It was published two days ago and I was personally informed by PPP national chairman only late afternoon yesterday. We informed VP Leni’s camp of this development right after,” Durano said.
Davide, who is supporting Robredo’s presidential ambition, said that despite the fact that he and Durano are supporting different presidential candidates, “it has not diminished in any way their shared belief to continue their movement for #AbetterCEbu”.
“We have gone this far. Ace and I will finish the race with the same vigor, enthusiasm and respect as the interest of the Cebuanos is more paramount over our personal choice,” part of Davide’s statement read.
Durano added even if they have different presidentiables, it has not changed their goal to continue their movement towards a better Cebu.
“We’re truly grateful for all the support we've gotten the past few months from different colors and parties. Ang tinuod nga kadaogan sa tawo nag gikan sa lain-laing kolor. If you also believe in the power of UNITY, we call on our fellow Cebuanos to stand with us for #AbetterCEbu,” Durano further said. – JMD (FREEMAN)