Rodrigo Duterte accepts nomination to run as vice-president in 2022 Philippine election

The president is barred from running for another term, and rivals have criticised his plan as an attempt to keep his grip on power

Panfilo Lacson was the first to declare his candidacy but he trails behind Sara Duterte-Carpio, while Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jnr is eyeing a post

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Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said his decision to accept the VP nomination was driven by love of country, and because he wants to see ‘continuity’ in his efforts. Photo: Reuters

Published: 7:25pm, 8 Sep 2021Updated: 8:29pm, 8 Sep 2021

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday accepted his party’s nomination to run for vice-president in next year’s election, pushing ahead with a plan criticised by rivals as an attempt to maintain his grip on power.

Duterte, 76, is barred by the constitution from running for a second term and his interest in being vice-president, traditionally a ceremonial role, has prompted accusations he wants to stay in power to avert possible legal action against him at home or abroad.

But Duterte said his decision was driven by love of country.

“It is really because I want to see the continuity of my efforts even though I may not be the one giving direction, I might be able to help,” Duterte said in addressing the party.

Duterte had wanted long-time aide Christopher “Bong” Go, a senator, to succeed him, but Go declined the party’s presidential nomination.

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