Newbie party-list lawmaker apologizes, regrets punching waiter

Neophyte lawmaker Alfred delos Santos of the Ang Probinsyano party-list has apologized for punching a waiter in Albay, saying his action — caught on CCTV camera — was inexcusable.

“I have no excuse, only regret and the promise that it will not happen again. I would like to apologize to Christian Kent Alejo and his family for my action, and to our people for failing in their expectation of a public servant,” Delos Santos said in a statement.

“I am sorry not only to Mr. Christian Kent Alejo and his family but also to the people who voted for Ang Probinsyano. Sorry for disappointing you,” the congressman added.

Delos Santos admitted that he should have kept his emotions in check but insisted he was no bully.

“I am not a troublemaker. Hindi po ako siga, astig or sanggano. The people who know me well can attest to that. Still, I am really sorry that I have reacted the way I did. I should have known better,” he said.

“This single incident does not represent me or my values, and I will prove it by working hard to deliver our campaign promises to fellow probinsyanos, and from hereon conduct myself as an exemplary public servant worthy of the trust and confidence of our people. I hope and pray that you will find in your hearts a way to forgive and understand,” Delos Santos added.

In an interview on Super Radyo dzBB, Delos Santos admitted to having been "drunk" after consuming a bottle of liquor.

In the footage, Alejo, a service crew at Bigg's Diner, could be seen dodging and narrowly missing a punch thrown by Delos Santos on Sunday.

Before the incident happened, the service crew could be seen putting what appears to be placemats on the table of Delos Santos and his companions.

According to a police blotter report, Delos Santos allegedly punched the service crew "without any apparent reason," but the latter "luckily avoided it."

Delos Santos’ party-list and members of the House have yet to move for sanctions but the newbie lawmaker assured his colleagues that he is ready to face the music.

“I know you are all disappointed and I humbly accept whatever decision that you make in relation to my nomination in the party-list,” Delos Santos said.

Likewise, Delos Santos claimed that the family of the waiter he offended has already accepted his apology. — MDM, GMA News