Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte announced on Monday, September 7, at Grand Men Seng Hotel, that he would not run for President in the 2016 elections.
“After consulting my family and everybody else connected to my life, I would like to categorically state now and also for the agony of those waiting for those who believe in me: hindi ako tatakbo pagkapresidente,” Duterte said in front of his supporters.
“In 2016, I will retire from public life for good. I believe it’s no longer my time to be in politics,” he added.
The teary-eyed Mayor apologized to his supporters and friends during the 14-minute press conference, then immediately left the hotel.
Mayor #Duterte says he will not run for president. "Final and categorical" | @InqNational #VotePH2016
— Inquirer Group (@inquirerdotnet) September 7, 2015