Dr Willie Ong withdraws from Senate race due to cancer

Cardiologist Willie Ong has withdrawn from the Senate race to focus on his health, citing a cancer diagnosis he revealed last September when doctors found a sarcoma behind his heart and in front of his spine.

Ong made the announcement Thursday via social media, expressing gratitude towards supporters and pledging continued support for good governance through his private capacity.

Despite declaring himself cancer-free last December after receiving treatment in Singapore, Ong had filed his certificate of candidacy on October 3, 2024, and declared his senatorial bid shortly after being diagnosed with sarcoma.

Former senator Bam Aquino expressed gratitude to Ong for his advocacy and wished him a full recovery, acknowledging the challenging decision to prioritize health over political ambitions.

This marks Ong's third attempt at national office; he previously ran for the Senate in 2019 under Lakas-CMD and for vice president in 2022 alongside former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno.

His decision to withdraw highlights the personal challenges he faces while also emphasizing the importance of prioritizing health over political ambitions.