Bato credits win to ‘protest’ votes

MANILA, Philippines —  In his imminent return to the Senate for a second term, Sen. Ronald dela Rosa credited his strong showing in the midterm polls to “protest” votes fueled by public anger over the arrest and detention of former president Rodrigo Duterte in The Hague.

Dela Rosa said the election results reflect public dismay over what he called a political misstep by the administration.

“Wrong move, wrong political move... We showed our resentment for what they did to Tatay Digong on the ballot,” Dela Rosa told ANC yesterday.

He added that he and fellow Duterte ally Sen. Bong Go – who is currently leading the senatorial race – are grateful for the support.

However, Dela Rosa struck a conciliatory tone, saying he is open to working with the administration bloc in the Senate, despite political tensions.

“To all winners, I hope and pray that if possible, let us stop the bickering,” he said.

He further framed past clashes as reactions to the Palace’s actions against their group: “We’re just reacting in order to survive.”

Asked about the implications of the incoming Senate composition on the looming impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, Dela Rosa downplayed the administration’s influence.

“They don’t control things… when it comes to the Senate, moves are different. We’re like 24 independent republics,” he said.

‘Duterte overjoyed’

Hearing about his landslide win as mayor of Davao City, the detained older Duterte could not contain his excitement, his lead counsel Nicholas Kaufman said.

“As a person who is totally innocent until proven otherwise, there should be no impediment under law preventing him from exercising or assuming any civic right,” Kaufman said.

It remains unclear what will be the process for Duterte during the oath taking, as well as the possible work arrangements should he remain in detention when his term begins on June 30.

Sara bucks dynasties

Despite hailing from one of the most entrenched political families in the country, Vice President Sara Duterte said she favors an anti-political dynasty law, adding that she would be the most credible person to write a law regulating these.

“Precisely, that’s why I’m the biggest and possess a solid credibility to speak about political dynasties – because I come from a political dynasty,” she told reporters in Davao City after casting her vote on Monday.

Her remarks come amid continued public criticism over the dominance of political families in Philippine politics – her own included. –  Janvic Mateo, Emmanuel Tupas