President Rodrigo Duterte said Friday senatorial candidate Robin Padilla would play a "critical role" in the legislature should the action star win seat in the May 9 elections given that he's a Muslim.
Calling Padilla a "crusader", Duterte said his longtime supporter sought his help for a Senate run
"He would play a critical role in the Senate, tandaan ninyo ito, he is a respected member of the Muslim community in the Philippines," Duterte said.
"Nakikita ko yung passion," he added, noting that the "Bad Boy" of Philippine cinema is very respectful who always uses "po" when asking questions.
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Padilla is running for senator under Duterte's PDP-Laban party. In 2016, he campaigned for Duterte and was granted absolute pardon by the latter within months of his ascent to the presidency.
Duterte's eldest daughter Sara, who is running for vice president, has also endorsed Padilla's Senate bid.