Former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson has decided to withdraw from the senatorial race in the May midterm polls, citing health reasons.
Former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson announces his withdrawal from the senatorial race due to health reasons at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. (Mark Balmores/MANILA BULLETIN)
He announced this during the “VLive Grand Launch” at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City on Sunday, Jan. 12.
“Ang desisyon ko po, hindi na po ako tutuloy sa aking kandidatura sa Senado (My decision is not to push through with my senate candidacy),” the former governor said, adding that being a senator is hard work.
“At ayaw kong ipilit ang aking kalusugan ang maaaring magdusa. Sa totoo lang tumakas ako sa hospital dahil ayaw nila akong palabasin (I don’t want to force myself because my health will suffer. In truth, I just escaped from the hospital because they don’t want to let me out),” he told the audience.
Singson shared that while he was treated for pneumonia, he was advised to rest for a prolonged period of time.
Campaign for the national positions will begin on Feb. 11.
“Gusto ko pong makapaglingkod sa inyo ng buong puso at buong tapat kaya’t minabuti kong unahin muna ang aking pagpapalakas para lalo pa ako makatulong at makapaglingkod sa inyong lahat (I want to serve you wholeheartedly so I decided to focus on regaining my strength so I can help and serve you better),” the former governor said.
“Kaya humihingi po ako ng paumanhin sa mga nagbigay ng kanilang oras, lakas at suporta para sa kampanyang ito (I am asking for understanding from those who gave their time, strength, and support for this campaign),” he added.
Among Singson’s advocacies were helping traditional jeepney drivers transition to e-jeepneys and the launch of the VBank app to reach underserved Filipinos who have no access to financial institutions.
The former official said these advocacies will continue despite his withdrawal from the race.