Speakership hopeful and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales yesterday vowed to pull out from the race for the top leadership of the House of Representatives if President Duterte chooses another congressman for the post.
Gonzales, PDP-Laban executive vice president, said he is “personally backing” Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco for the top House of Representatives post.
However, Gonzales said he will abide by the decision of Duterte decides, adding that he will drop out from the speakership race if Duterte announces another choice for House Speaker.
Duterte is expected to make the announcement on June 28.
However, political allies were convinced that the Chief Executive might pull up a surprise by declaring his choice when he speaks at the Hugpong ng Pagbabago victory party last night.
In a closed door PDP-Laban executive meeting, Gonzales stressed that Duterte’s views on the speakership race will guide the party’s decision in selecting who among its members should represent the ruling party.
The veteran administration lawmaker said he will personally back Velasco “if our good President says so.”
However, he also vowed to maintain support for former House Speaker and Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez “if the direction points to him.” (Ben Rosario)