Duterte wraps up NPC meeting with presidential bets
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC) wrapped up its series of meetings with presidential candidates on Monday evening (January 18) with Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.
The meeting, held at the NPC's main headquarters in Quezon City, was part of the party's consultations among its members to decide on who they will support in the May elections.
NPC had previously met with Manuel "Mar" Roxas II, Sen. Grace Poe and Vice President Jejomar Binay.
Related: NPC 'impressed' by Mar Roxas
Duterte described the meeting as "jovial" and sometimes "serious."
He said some NPC members expressed support for his advocacy on federalism — but added that no one formally signified support for his candidacy.
"At this time maybe NPC is scouting for the ideal candidate for them to support. Whether I am the ideal candidate is not my guess," Duterte said.
Rep. Mark Enverga, the party's spokesman, said the mayor had political will.
It was clear in the meeting that Mayor Duterte is highly passionate about peace and order," Enverga noted.
NPC has formed an executive committee that will decide on their chosen one.
The party hopes to make their endorsement before the start of the official campaign period on February 9.
NPC is also in the process of choosing its vice presidential bet.
Enverga said it was possible that they would end up endorsing candidates from different parties.
CNN Philippines' Ina Andolong contributed to this report.
