DOC WILLIE ONG WITHDRAWS FROM SENATE RACE

Cancer-stricken Dr. Willie Ong is withdrawing his senatorial bid for the 2025 midterm elections (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News)

Dr. Willie Ong, a cardiologist and social media personality, announced his withdrawal from the 2025 Senate race to take care of his health. 

"I am officially withdrawing my candidacy for the 2025 elections. So I can focus more on taking care of my health," Ong said in a statement on his Facebook account.

Despite his withdrawal of senatorial bid, Ong said he will keep on supporting good governance and the candidates who push the same agenda as him.

“I sincerely thank all the people who supported me and prayed for me. I will continue to support good governance and the candidates who espouse the same ideals as mine. Our advocacy to help the poor Filipinos continues even in my private capacity,” he said.

Dr. Liza Ong and political party Aksyon Demokratiko later confirmed that he was quitting the Senate elections. Heal PH, a party-list seeking a congressional seat in May's midterm elections, said Ong would "continue to endorse and strongly support" the group.

Last September 2024, Ong disclosed that he was diagnosed with sarcoma, a rare cancer affecting the bones and soft tissue. He said that the tumor, hidden behind his heart and in front of his spine, measures 16x13x12 centimeters — roughly the size of a football.

On December 2, 2024, he announced that he was cancer-free. His Certificate of Candidacy was filed through his wife Liza while receiving treatment in Singapore. 

Known for his huge social media presence due to his medical tips, this marks Ong’s third attempt at national office. Ong was the runningmate of then Manila mayor Isko Moreno in the 2022 presidential election. 

Source: ABS-CBN News

Be part of ImHenyo community!

Get featured by sharing your stories, news, and comments

Email us at [email protected]