Senator Richard Gordon said Tuesday he was considering a second candidacy for president, saying the country ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic needed a leader that is both capable and inspiring.
Gordon, who is also at the forefront of the pandemic fight as president of the Philippine Red Cross, said he was holding consultations and would decide before the deadline for filing of candidacies in October.
"Certainly I would be lying if I don't consider it," Gordon told a virtual forum of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry when asked if he is planning to run for president in 2022.
The Philippines needs a "capable leader that will provide sustainability, that will provide sincerity and the inspiration to make the people believe in themselves and work together as a people. Yan ang kailangan natin," he said.
"My name is Dick, but I am not a -tator," he said.
The senator said his track record in the executive and legislative branches, as well as his humanitarian work would speak for his capabilities as a leader.
Prior to being a senator, Gordon served as mayor of Olongapo City from 1980 to 1986 and from 1988 to 1993. As chairman and administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority from 1992 to 1998, he transformed the former U.S. military base into a logistics and manufacturing hub.
During the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Gordon took the helm of the Department of Tourism, during which the slogan "Wow Philippines" was born.
He currently serves as chairman the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee that targets corruption in government.
"You can compare my record in terms of accomplishments. I think, I ain't that so bad. Nakagawa naman ako kahit paano. I don't think I've been in any controversy that deserts my mother or my father," Gordon said.
In 2010, Gordon also ran for president under the Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippines party, placing fifth overall. Former President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III won that year.
