Cardiologist and health advocate Dr. Willie Ong has officially withdrawn his candidacy for the 2025 Senate elections, citing health concerns as his reason.
In a statement posted on Facebook on Thursday, Ong announced his decision to step away from the political race to prioritize his well-being.
“I am officially withdrawing my candidacy for the 2025 elections so I can focus more on taking care of my health,” he said.
Despite stepping back from his senatorial bid, Ong assured his supporters that he will continue advocating for good governance and backing candidates who share his vision.
“Our advocacy to help poor Filipinos continues even in my private capacity,” he added, expressing gratitude to those who have supported and prayed for him.
Last September, Ong revealed that he is undergoing treatment for cancer after doctors discovered a large sarcoma in his abdomen. The tumor, measuring 16 x 13 x 12 centimeters, was located behind his heart and in front of his spine. Around the same time, his wife, Dr. Liza Ong, filed his certificate of candidacy on his behalf as he was receiving treatment in Singapore.
The campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list groups began on Tuesday and will run until May 10, 2025. Election Day is set for May 12, with overseas voting scheduled from April 13 to May 12 and local absentee voting from April 28 to 30.
