The camps of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. are reportedly locked in earnest yet frantic discussions over a possible partnership that could result in a powerhouse team for the May 2022 elections.
And this would definitely include a decision on who would banner the formidable tandem, and who would have to step back and run for vice president instead.
Reports of such a meeting was confirmed Friday, Nov. 12, by Lakas-CMD (Christian Muslim Democrat) President and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez who said: “We’re in the middle of getting two excellent leaders together.”
“I don’t see any conflict. Mayor Sara and BBM are good friends. They’ve been communicating, dialogue,” he said.
He also disclosed that any decision could be arrived at “over the weekend”.
“Definitely . Ilang tulugan na lang matatapos na (A few more nights, and it will be over). There will be more clarity. Alalahanin natin napaka-importante nitong desisyon (We should remember, this is a very important decision). This is for the top position in land,” the House leader noted.
“Basically, I’m hoping for that (partnership). That they can work together. Discussions between the two have been along those lines. We’re thinking positive about this. If anything, we’re in the middle of getting two excellent leaders that can serve the country,” added Romualdez.
The bristling pace of changes started Thursday afternoon, Nov. 11, when Duterte resigned from the regional party she chaired Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP), before she attended the wedding of the daughter of Lakas Chairman and Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. later, arriving in an entourage escorted by Marcos.
Not long after the wedding, she took her oath as member of Lakas-CMD before Romualdez and Revilla.
“We are very glad, and very happy, and honored that Mayor Inday Sara has finally agreed, and accepted our standing, long standing invitation (for her) to join Lakas. This has been extended as early as 2018. We have had an alliance and active cooperation since then. We’re glad that last night she finally accepted and I’d like to tell you that she joined Lakas for a possible run in the national arena of Philippine politics,” Romualdez said.
And whatever the outcome of the talks between Duterte and Marcos, he underscored that “we, as a party of Mayor Sara, will be very supportive of her decision”.
Romualdez also disclosed that, with the prospect of being led by a Duterte-Marcos tandem, Lakas has also been getting feelers from senatorial aspirants for inclusion as guest candidate in its senatorial lineup.
“Marami po (There are many). We have already list . We’ll just come out with it as the weekend unfolds. But yes, definitely adopting or suporting candidates from other parties because we believe in,” he added.