For presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., the recent remarks of President Rodrigo Duterte that he lived a "simple life" was a sign of his endorsement for his presidential bid.
Marcos told DZRH in an interview that even if Duterte claims he is above endorsing any candidates, the president is sending a message of support to his run for the presidency.
"Siguro ay palapit na tayo sa eleksyon day talagang nagpahiwatig na siya," he said.
(Perhaps since we are closing on the election day, he is really starting to send a message.)
"Pinapaalam niya talaga kung saan ang suporta niya kaya't lagi naman kami nagpapasalamat kay Pangulong Duterte sa lahat na kanyang isinasagawa para sa UniTeam at sa aming mga kandidato," he added.
(He is really letting everyone know where his support is, and that’s why we are thankful for President Duterte for everything that he has done for the UniTeam and our candidates.)
According to Marcos Jr., the president's recent remarks can be regarded as a "natural progression" as election day closes in.
"Hindi kataka-taka na si Pangulong Duterte ay siyempre nagpapaalam din siya kung sasabihin niya without endorsing dahil 'yun ang pangako niya," Marcos said.
(It is not questionable for President Duterte to let everyone know who he is supporting without endorsing because that is his promise.)
"Pinaparamdam niya siguro na tignan ng mabuti ang mga kandidato na suportado ang administrasyon."
(He may be letting everyone know to look at candidates that are supportive of the administration.)
He made the remarks after Duterte claimed on Friday in an interview with SMNI that Marcos Jr. lived a simple life and that he has little money left after everything was sequestered from them.
Duterte even shared that Marcos Jr. once shared a ride with him when the latter was still running as Senator.
These remarks contradict the president's previous attacks he made against Marcos Jr., where he called him a "weak leader" and a "spoiled child."
Marcos Jr. is currently running in tandem with vice presidential candidate and presidential daughter Sara Duterte.
