Taguig-Pateros Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano said Friday he would not run for president in next year's elections.

(Photo Courtesy: Rappler, For File Photos : by DARREN LANGIT)

In a radio interview, Cayetano said he would not seek the highest position in the country because he does not want to "divide the nation further at a time when unity is what is most needed."

"We did our best but together with the family and close supporters, I will not be running for president of the Republic of the Philippines in 2022," he said in Filipino.

The former Speaker of the House of Representatives said he wants to focus on drafting a five-year economic recovery plan that can be adopted by the candidates for president, as well as pushing for the proposal to provide P10,000 in direct stimulus to every Filipino family amid the pandemic.

"Your role and what you can do to help is more important than the position," he said in Filipino.

Cayetano said he could open lines of communication with presidential candidates and share new ideas in dealing with the pandemic.

"Sinceit's not coming from a presidential candidate and it's not just one person advocating it, I hope they will embrace it and accept it because we really need a plan," he said.

Senator Manny Pacquiao was the first aspirant to file a certificate of candidacy (COC) for president at the Sofitel Harbor Garden Tents in Pasay City on Friday.

The senator also named his running mate – former Manila mayor and Buhay party-list Rep. Lito Atienza