Saying he’s out to “unify” the House of Representatives, House Deputy Speaker and presidential son, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte, yesterday bared his willingness to join every political party as an “adopted” member.
“To all other political groups out there, I am still up for adoption!” declared Duterte, a rookie solon in the 18th Congress, in a statement.
Duterte was recently adopted by the National Unity Party, one of the largest political blocs in the House. He called it an “honor” to be part of NUP, which has around 50 members in the chamber.
“As the House Deputy Speaker for Political Affairs, my main task is to unify all members of Congress towards a common goal – that is to improve the lives of the Filipino people,” he said.
“If being adopted by most, if not all, political parties is to be of service to the people, then I am more than willing to join all of you,” added the high-profile lawmaker.
Adoption by a political party means the individual can retain his or her original party membership. An individual can only have one regular party membership.
Being connected with Duterte raises the stock of the NUP, making it more attractive to potential members. This dynamic is on full display at the 305-strong House, where every committee and plenary decision boils down to a numbers game.
“I am new to this national political arena, yet many of my colleagues wanted me to join their respective political groups,” noted the Davao vice mayor-turned-congressman.
Duterte further justified his desire to link up with all political parties: “In unity there is strength. Let us show the Filipino people that we can all be united towards one common goal. This would be a first in Philippine politics, and it happened under the Duterte administration.” (Ellson A. Quismorio)
