On Tuesday Malacañang said it “accepts” and “respects” the initial election results showing Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte top the presidential race with at least 6 million votes ahead of administration standard bearer Manuel “Mar” Roxas II.

In a statement released by Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Malacañang said: “Our people have spoken and their verdict is accepted and respected.”

“The path of good governance or Daang Matuwid is already established as all presidential candidates spoke out against corruption, and in favor of continuing and expanding present pro-poor programs, and pursuing more initiatives to sustain the strong economy and achieve inclusive growth,” Coloma said.

“Daang Matuwid may be called different names, but its purpose and spirit will have lasting impact, and continue to shape the consciousness of our people and those that serve them in accordance with the principles of good governance and responsible citizenship,” he added.

Partial and unofficial results as of 11:30 a.m. show Duterte leading the presidential elections with 15,295,515 votes. Roxas is at second place with 9,221,159 votes.

Senator Grace Poe, meanwhile, was at third place with 8,566,885; Vice President Jejomar Binay, 5,073,511; Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, 1,367,731; and the late Rep. Roy Señeres with 24,028 votes.

Poe on Monday night conceded to Duterte.

President Benigno Aquino III earlier called on the public to respect whatever the outcome of the elections will be.

“Sa demokrasya, lahat ay nakakapagdesisyun. Sa huli, pagkatapos ng halalan, nawa’y matigil na ang bangayan. Igalang at unawain natin ang anumang pasyang bunga ng pagsasama ng tinig ng mas nakararami para sa ating lahat,” Aquino said. Philippines Report

Source Credit: GMA News