Former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson has officially withdrawn his candidacy for senator in the upcoming May 12 elections.
Singson personally filed his certificate of withdrawal at the Commission on Elections office on Thursday, citing health concerns as the reason for his decision. He shared with the media that he had recently battled pneumonia twice and wanted to avoid the risk of a third infection.
Singson had first announced his plan to withdraw from the Senate race on January 12, emphasizing his need to prioritize his health. His decision comes despite receiving an endorsement from former President Rodrigo Duterte in August 2024, when he initially declared his intention to run.
A Look at Singson’s Political Journey
Singson previously ran for the Senate in 2007 but was unsuccessful. In 2021, he joined the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) while serving as mayor of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. However, he opted not to seek any position in the 2022 national elections.
With Singson’s withdrawal, the field of candidates for the 2025 senatorial race tightens, as the political landscape continues to take shape ahead of the elections.