Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte believes Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano can wipe out other vice presidential hopefuls in the 2016 elections.
The mayor told this to media after his almost two-hour dinner on Tuesday (September 29) with the senator and his sister, Sen. Pilar “Pia” Cayetano.
The mayor described the dinner as a social call as he is a long-time supporter of the Cayetanos, especially their father — the late Sen. Renato “Compañero” Cayetano.
Related: Alan Peter Cayetano announces 2016 VP bid in Davao City
‘Team ups and tandems’
When asked what they talked about, the Davao City mayor said that they discussed team ups and tandems. However, he did not specify if they talked about a possible Duterte-Cayetano tandem in 2016.
The mayor was also quick to add that he still has no intentions to join the presidential race.
“I’m not running but if I change my mind, I’ll do it here,” Duterte said explaining that he prefers to make the announcement in Davao City if ever he decides to run.
“Dito ako nag-umpisa, dito din ako magtatapos.”
Alan Peter, on the other hand, said he hopes that Duterte would eventually change his mind.
“Will he run or not, your guess is as good as mine, pero ako I’m taking a step of faith. Katulad ng sinabi ko kanina, the best partner is worth the wait.”
He added that they discussed issues on drugs and peace and order and if it could be resolved on a national level.
Earlier that day, Alan Peter declared his vice presidential bid in a press conference in Davao City.
Although he did not mention who his running mate will be, hints given by the senator seemed to point towards Duterte. He mentioned Duterte’s brand of “tapang” and “malasakit” as his ideal match.
