Philippines: Former dictator Ferdinand Marcos' son announces candidacy for Presidency

son of Philippines' former dictator Ferdinand Marcos has anunced that he will run for presidential post in next year’s elections. In an elaborate video mess on Facebook, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that he would  bring “unifying leadership” to country. “Let us bring Filipis back to one ar in service of our country, facing crisis and challenges of future toger,” he added furr as he disclosed his intention to be country’s next leader. 

Since polls were first anunced, archipelagic nation has witnessed a dramatic turn of events including incumbent president Rodrigo Dutretre quitting politics. tably, Ferdinand is an ally of Dutretre and has previously advocated his proposal to award death penalty to drug traffickers. Popularly kwn as ‘Bongbong’, 64-year-old is only son of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr, who seized power in 1972 and continued to rule for two decades. 

Who is running in Pacquiao's opposition? 

At present, former boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and mayor of Manila Francisco Domagoso have already anunced ir candidacy for presidential post. Last week, a report by ABS-CBN disclosed that Duterte's daughter intended to run for country’s presidential seat in next year’s elections. It added that Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, who was previously touted as Presidential candidate, would be her running mate. 

Pacific archipelago is set to hold its Presidential elections starting 9 May next year. Filipi constitution forbids president to run for a second term. Earlier in August, Duterte anunced that he would run for vice presidency, triggering criticism that move was made to ensure his stronghold on power.

On 2 October, Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte declared his retirement from politics and cancellation of plans to compete for vice president in next year's elections when his term ends, avoiding a legal struggle with opponents. Speaking to media, he stated that many Filipis had registered ir opposition to his vice-presidential bid in public forums and surveys, according to Associated Press (AP). " overwhelming view among Filipis is that I am unqualified for post, and it would be a constitutional violation if I decide to contest against people's will. I anunce my retirement from politics," he was quoted as saying by AP. 

(File Im: AP)