Plot Twist Again: Bong Go is Out of 2022 Presidential Race

Sen. Bong Go said Tuesday he was abandoning his candidacy for president after a series of plot twists that eclipsed Philippine politics.

Go's announcement came days after he said he was mulling on withdrawing from the presidential race as a "supreme sacrifice."

"Naisip ko na ay siguro hindi ko pa panahon sa ngayon. Diyos lang po ang nakakaalam kung kailan talaga ang tamang panahon ko. Ayaw ko pong lalong maipit si Presidente Duterte..." Go told reporters.

"I am withdrawing from the race. Having said this, I leave my fate to God and to the Filipino people as I vow to do my best every day to serve selflessly and tirelessly," Go said.

WHAT WENT BEFORE:

Bong Go Says Ready to 'Sacrifice' Presidential Candidacy

Duterte Endorses Bong Go for President, Daughter Sara for VP

Arroyo's Lakas Adopts Bongbong-Sara Tandem for 2022

The longtime aide of President Rodrigo Duterte was initially seeking the vice presidency but joined the presidential race to avoid a clash with the latter's daughter Sara Duterte.

The younger Duterte is running for vice president alongside presidential aspirant Bongbong Marcos, the only son and namesake of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

Go's announcement leaves President Duterte open to endorse a new successor.

EXPLAINERS:

Magic or Curse? Philippine Presidents' Endorsement, Explained

'Do I Look Like a Mockery to You?': Candidate Substitution, Explained

The Teleserye of Political Families in the Philippines, Explained

#LetLeniLead, #RunSaraRun: Politics of Public Clamor, Explained