By Ron Huerto

It is only through an open democratic society that we can truly uphold ideals that we hold dear

President Rodrigo Duterte dispelled talks he is leaving the ruling Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) and join his daughter’s regional political party.

Duterte told members of Davao Mayor Sara Duterte’s Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HnP) that he intends to remain a PDP member.

“I do not like to change parties. So, I will remain where I am,” said Duterte who ran and won under the banner of the PDP. Duterte is the incumbent chairman of the party.

He admitted that when he joined PDP, the party was but a ragtag group and only gathered strength after he won in the 2016 presidential elections.

Despite the PDP’s leftist leanings, Duterte said he joined the party because it was “principled.”

While he is not joining HnP, Duterte said he supports the nine senatorial candidates the party is endorsing for the 2019 senatorial elections.

Strong lineup
The HnP senatorial bets include Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, presidential spokesman Harry Roque, Sen. Cynthia Villar, Sen. JV Ejercito, Sen. Sonny Angara, Rep. Pia Cayetano, Rep. Zajid Mangudadatu, Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos and Bureau of Corrections Chief Ronald de la Rosa.

“I can support you morally, politically, if the public would still listen to me,” Duterte said.
Mr. Duterte also committed his backing to the HnP.

“If you want me to campaign for you – I will,” the President offered during the Davao City convention and mass oathtaking of the 6,276 new recruits of HnP from the 182 barangays of the city and city local officials at the SMX Convention Center on Friday night.

Duterte even offered a possible coalition with the PDP if HnP members are comfortable with the idea.

“It is only through an open democratic society that we can truly uphold ideals that we hold dear,” he said.