Miriam’s VP? Duterte says no

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is not interested in being Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago’s running mate in case she runs for president in the 2016 elections.

Duterte said yesterday he is honored by Miriam’s pronouncement but could not accept it, as he is not interested in any national office. 

“I am not good for national office and I intend to retire after this term,” he said.

Aside from Duterte, Santiago said she would choose either former defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. or Sen. Grace Poe as her vice president.

Duterte said the senator should ask Teodoro, whom he said is an honest man.

“He is a man of integrity and competence and he would make a good vice president of this republic. I will support him,” he said.

Admitting he owes Teodoro a debt of gratitude, Duterte said he would use all his resources to help the former defense executive.

Meanwhile, President Aquino refused to comment on the growing clamor for Duterte to run for president in 2016.

Unconfirmed reports said millions of people have signed a manifesto circulated by certain groups prodding Duterte to run in the next elections.

Duterte has repeatedly turned down calls for him to run for president.

 “I am not interested in the office and I am not qualified for it,” Duterte would often reply.