MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has reiterated that the Philippines’ standing in Southeast Asia and the global stage has compelled her to “seriously consider” running for president in 2028.
Speaking over the weekend, Duterte reaffirmed a statement she made last month while addressing overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Japan, who encouraged her to seek the presidency.
“When I went to Japan and met OFWs who live and work there, they asked me if I would run in 2028 and I said I’m seriously considering running in the 2028 presidential elections,” Duterte told News5.
She expressed frustration over the country’s current situation, emphasizing the need for urgent reforms to enhance the Philippines’ competitiveness.
“We need to be competitive with our neighbors in the region and the rest of the world. We’ve been left out and we don’t want this to continue,” she added.
Duterte’s reaffirmation of her potential candidacy comes amid declining trust and satisfaction ratings and the ongoing threat of impeachment.
While her political future remains uncertain, questions have also arisen about her role in the 2025 midterm elections. As the founder of Hugpong ng Pagbabago, a regional party that performed well in the last midterms, her endorsements carry significant political weight.
However, Duterte admitted she is still evaluating whether her endorsements would be beneficial or detrimental to candidates.
“I’m still thinking about how I could participate in the 2025 elections because I’m unsure if my endorsement would help or harm candidates,” she said.
“I need to think about it properly because if my opting out for endorsements would be helpful to candidates, I’d be happy to (not endorse anyone),” she added.
Recent weeks have seen mass protests, with groups either opposing or urging Congress to push forward with impeachment proceedings against the Vice President.
Although the House of Representatives has received impeachment complaints, no action has been taken so far.
Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has advised Congress not to pursue the complaints.
