Duterte ‘could resign’ if Marcos Jr becomes Philippines’ VP – spokesman

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte could step down if the son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos succeeds in overturning his 2016 vice presidential election defeat, Duterte’s spokesman said on Thursday. Duterte’s single term ends in June 2022 and he has spoken often recently about quitting before that. He said he was reluctant to do that now because a constitutional succession would mean handing power to Vice President Leni Robredo, whom he said was not up to the job, Reuters said. Robredo, who leads the opposition party, was elected separately having narrowly defeated Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the son and namesake of the ousted former ruler. Marcos has challenged the result alleging fraud. The Supreme Court has ordered a recount, and a complex process that got underway in April could take several years. Marcos expressed his gratitude to Duterte for showing faith in him, but said the president should finish his term.