SAP: No go to Senate run

Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go ended speculations yesterday over his possible Senate run, saying he is definitely not a candidate for the mid-term elections next year.

Go said the only way that his decision will change would be a direct order from President Duterte.

“I really do not want to run. I am not interested. Only President Duterte can order me to become a candidate. Period,” Go said in an exclusive interview with ABS-CBN South Cotabato.

Go denied that billboards with his face printed on them seen in parts of Metro Manila, North Luzon Expressway (Nlex) and some provinces have something to do with the senatorial election or an indication of his plan to run.

He reiterated he doesn’t know the intention of those who set up the posters.

“I’m calling out private individuals who put up the billboards, especially in Manila and Nlex.

I became the subject of attacks by my critics and opposition groups about my face being included in [tarpaulins and streamers]. I don’t know anything about it,” Go said.

Go, however, still thanked his supporters for encouraging him to aspire for the Senate despite the uncertainty of his political plan.

Despite the series of surveys on the senatorial race, Go also said he remains unconcerned regarding the result of the Social Weather Station (SWS) survey wherein he ended up in 23rd spot.

“Any survey spot or ranking doesn’t matter to me,” Go said. “I don’t consider myself as part of the race,” he added.

“My only job is to help the Filipinos and I am happy to do it since I am able to help a lot of them. So I don’t need to run for an elective post,” Go added.

“To all my supporters, thank you for your support. I love you all,” he said.