Palace congratulates President-elect Marcos, VP-elect Duterte

The Palace on Wednesday congratulated Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, who have been proclaimed President-elect and Vice-President-elect, respectively.

Presidential Communications Secretary and Acting Presidential Spokesperson Martin Andanar issued the statement after Congress, sitting as National Board of Canvassers (NBOC), proclaimed Marcos and Duterte as winners of the 2022 national and local polls.

"We congratulate Mr. Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, Jr. and Ms. Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio on their electoral victory and for their proclamation as President-elect of the Philippines and Vice President-elect of the Philippines, respectively," Andanar said.

"Today’s proclamation ceremony by Congress marks another historic milestone in our political life as a nation underscoring that we are, indeed, a showcase and beacon of democracy in this part of the world," he added.

Marcos, Jr. won the polls with 31 million votes, with Vice President Leni Robredo in second place with 15 million votes.

Duterte, daughter of current President Rodrigo Duterte, garnered 32 million votes against second placer, Senator Francis Pangilinan, who earned nine million votes.

"As both leaders are about to embark on the responsibilities and challenges of their respective offices, we reiterate our call for our people to stand behind our newly elected leaders," Andanar said.

"The Office of the President shall ensure a peaceful, orderly and smooth transfer of powers to the President-elect as we extend all the necessary support and assistance to various transition activities. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.  Mabuhay ang mga Pilipino," he added. — BM, GMA News