Roque backs out of Senate race, cites health reasons

Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Friday announced his withdrawal from the senatorial race due to health reasons.

“It is with a truly heavy heart that I announce the withdrawal of my senatorial bid,” Roque said in a statement.

Roque said he recently undergone a medical procedure following the discovery of an “unstable angina coronary disease earlier this week.”

“In the days since the procedure, my family and I have been forced to confront the reality of my physical situation and what it ultimately means for my aspirations to public service,” he said.

The former Palace official then thanked his supporters, saying he ran for senator because he “wanted to be of service in a way that I know I will be highly effective.”

“Whatever they may think of my politics, those who have seen my work in both the public and private sector can attest to what I would have brought to the Senate. Unfortunately, for the moment, it seems that God has other plans,” he said.

Roque said he hoped that he would be able to serve the public as a legislator or in whatever capacity in the future.

He also affirmed his support for President Rodrigo Duterte, who he had served as spokesperson from November 2017 until October 2018.  —KBK, GMA News