Gatchalian cites experience as Valenzuela mayor in pitching VP bid to Sara Duterte


Senator Sherwin Gatchalian recalled his term as a mayor of Valenzuela City in proposing to Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte that he be her running mate in the 2022 elections.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian (Senate PRIB)

Gatchalian previously admitted that he discussed with Duterte his plan to run for vice president next year, which the latter confirmed in a statement on Wednesday.

"As mentioned before, if given the chance, my experience and track record as local chief executive can be utilized in nation building in a role in the executive department," the senator said in a statement sent to reporters.

"That is why I humbly tendered my name as potential running mate to Mayor Sara Duterte, if she so decides to run," he added.

The senator served as chief executive of Valenzuela City for nine years beginning 2004. He was also elected as a representative of the city in the House of Representatives for two terms.

Gatchalian, a member of the Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC), had said that he will only join the vice presidential race if the Davao City mayor will be his running mate.

He said he will wait to be chosen by Duterte.

Aside from Gatchalian, Duterte said Sen. Christopher "Bong" Go has also personally offered to run as her vice president.

Go, on other hand, has been coy about his political plans and has repeatedly denied that he would seek higher office, before admitting Thursday that he wants to be vice president.

Duterte has yet to decide whether or not to run for president, although she confirmed her interest for the post.