Metro Manila, Philippines – Some presidential candidates announced they will hold a joint press conference on Easter Sunday, although the reason behind it is unclear.
The camps of at least three presidential hopefuls – Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Senator Ping Lacson, and former Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales – on Saturday sent invites for a press conference set on the following day, 11 a.m., at the Manila Peninsula Hotel.
In its advisory, Lacson’s media bureau said a total of five presidential candidates will be attending.
Two other presidential bets, Senator Manny Pacquiao and former presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella, were also mentioned in the list of expected attendees.
Pacquiao’s camp confirmed he will join. However, it also noted the senator is currently in his hometown General Santos City and that his attendance will ultimately depend on whether or not he will be able to fly back to Manila in time for the presser.
Meanwhile, in a message to reporters, Lacson’s running mate Senate President Tito Sotto said he is “not aware” of the purpose of the event but was formally invited by Lacson.
“He (Lacson) said five presidential candidates are meeting and are inviting their running mates. That’s all I know,” the vice presidential bet said.
A total of 10 candidates are vying for the top government post. The five others are Vice President Leni Robredo, former senator Bongbong Marcos, labor leader Leody de Guzman, lawyer and doctor Jose Montemayor Jr., and businessman Faisal Mangondato.
