‘Pray for me, pray for country,’ Bam asks supporters as count continues

MANILA, Philippines — Reelectionist Sen. Bam Aquino, the last hope of the opposition coalition for the 2019 senatorial race, asked for prayers Friday as he remained outside of the winner’s circle.

Aquino placed 14th in the latest partial and unofficial Comelec rankings with 14,055,212 voters supporting his bid to extend his stay at the upper house.

With about 2% of election returns left for canvassing, the Otso Diretso candidate needs to edge out fellow reelectionist senators JV Ejercito at 13th spot and 12th placer Nancy Binay to snag the last spot in the Senate race.

In the partial and official count accounting for 77.25% of the total votes, the Liberal Party bet is barely hanging at the 12th spot. Counting of the partial, official tally takes longer since these are subject to canvassing.

The results of the unofficial and official counts should match.

The Liberal Party bet, in his first post since Monday's elections, addressed his supporters: “I just want to tell everyone out there that I’m OK!”

He added: “Please continue praying for me, better yet, please continue praying for and loving our country.”

Aquino also said his love for his fellow Filipinos will not falter regardless of the outcome of the elections.

“Love, love, love and gratitude to all those sending their messages of support!” he said.

The Otso Diretso slate has suffered a major heartbreak as Aquino’s seven co-candidates failed to win in the Senate race.

Allies of President Rodrigo Duterte, meanwhile, dominate the top 12—a development seen to fortify the chief executive’s powers and pave way for his controversial projects. — Gaea Katreena Cabico