MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. extended his well wishes to former US President Donald Trump, who was hurt after gunfire erupted at a political rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday (Sunday morning in the Philippines).
In a statement, the Chief Executive said he is relieved after learning from news that Trump is safe after an assassination attempt, which resulted in the death of two persons.
“It is with great relief that we receive the news that former President Donald Trump is fine and well after the attempt to assassinate him. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family,” Marcos said.
He added: “Together with all democracy-loving peoples around the world, we condemn all forms of political violence. The voice of the people must always remain supreme.”
Trump, who is eyeing a White House return, was photographed with blood on his right ear and cheek after a series of gunfire were heard while he gave his speech.
Trump was quickly covered by his Secret Service and was escorted out of the venue. The American billionaire still managed to pump his fist in the air and shouted the words “Fight! Fight! Fight!”
The shooting occurred less than four months before the Nov. 5 election, when Trump faces an election rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden.
Trump is due to receive his party’s formal nomination at the Republican National Convention, which kicks off in Milwaukee on Monday (Tuesday in the Philippines).
Trump, who served as president from 2017-2021, easily bested his rivals for the Republican nomination early in the campaign and has largely unified around him the party that had briefly wavered in support after his supporters attacked the US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, attempting to overturn his 2020 election defeat./PN
