TWO Nacionalista Party, members who are being considered possible candidates for the vice presidential race next year, visited Cebu, saying sentiments in this vote-rich province would help them decide whether they would run.
Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said he came to Cebu because of the importance he was giving to Cebu’s more than 2 million voters.
NP members Marcos and Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano are being considered runningmates of Davao Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, who may seek the presidency.
“There are many reports but all of them are just reports. Puro yan haka-haka. Puro yan speculation. The possibilities are endless,” said Marcos.
Both senators were in Cebu yesterday for speaking engagements – Marcos was at the University of Cebu Banilad Campus to discuss his version of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. while Cayetano spoke in f another gathering in Cebu City.
Marcos said he has established alliances with some Cebu leaders, whom he refused to name, even if they are not necessarily supporting his Nacionalista Party.
“The fact that they are with LP (Liberal Party) and UNA (United Nationalist Alliance) does not mean that they cannot ally with us. So, yes we have a good number of people. You know these things are not exclusive. It does not mean that because you are with LP, you cannot be part of a certain group. NP is still in a coalition with LP,” he said.
Cayetano, for his part, said that he is also trying to weigh his options on whether to run for president or vice president.
Survey results will be a major consideration in his decision-making, he said.
Marcos, meanwhile, said he will have to also look at survey results, see what other aspirants and parties will do, what issues may come out, who are committed to support, availability of an organization that would ensure a successful campaign among others.
“It is a decision that I do not take lightly at all and must consider all the possibilities before making this very important decision so I ask for your patience pero malapit na,” Marcos added.
The deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy falls on Oct. 16.