By Junex Doronio
ADMITTING THAT HE WAS SURPRISED AND OVERWHELMED by his constant inclusion in the so-called “Magic 12” in the 2025 senatorial race, Davao City Rep. Paolo “Polong” Duterte has expressed reservations, citing his capacity to wage a national campaign and his inclination to retire early for the sake of his children.
Octa Research fellow Guido David earlier said that Polong could be a viable candidate if he runs in the next Senate elections as he has been consistently included in the Magic 12 list of senatorial candidates, ranking 9 to 12, in recent surveys.
“First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to my fellow Filipinos for continuing to place their trust and confidence in me. I started in politics serving Dabawenyos and I would like to retire doing the same,” Duterte said.
In a recent interview on “PolitiSkoop,” David noted that Polong will have “good chances” of landing in the Magic 12 if he decides to run for senator.
Polong’s father, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte also hinted earlier for a possible senatorial run in 2025 in his bid to lead an anti-Marcos Jr. opposition.
“Besides the fact that I cannot finance a nationwide campaign, what little I have saved is allotted for my retirement and the education of my children,” the younger Duterte added.
(ai/mnm)