‘Bato’ gets major campaign boost

Reelectionist Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa has maximized his alliance with the Dutertes in his new campaign advertisement featuring Vice President Sara Duterte.

In the said political advertisement, former President Rodrigo Duterte’s eldest daughter, who is now facing an impending impeachment trial, extends her full endorsement to Dela Rosa’s reelection bid.

The new advertisement opens with Dela Rosa in a dark setting, appearing visibly enraged over the criticisms directed at him.

“I’m being criticized, accused and smeared. They’re that afraid! But who is truly dedicated to serving the people?” Dela Rosa said in Filipino.

The tone shifts as Dela Rosa’s question is answered by a familiar voice, which turns out to be Duterte’s, expressing confidence in his leadership.

“You, Senator Bato Dela Rosa! You, Senator Bato, who continuously fought against illegal drugs! You, Senator Bato, are what the Filipinos need,” the Vice President said in Filipino.

“Matibay ang Bato! Hindi matitibag ang Bato,” she added.

Motivated by the Vice President’s words, Dela Rosa pledged to make it his mission to protect the lives of the Filipino people.

“And my mission is to protect your lives! I want you to be safe! You can carve that in stone,” Dela Rosa said.

Dela Rosa earlier vowed to be “neutral” in the impeachment trial of the Vice President should he make it to the so-called Magic 12 in the May midterm elections.