Malacañang said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has not been entertaining discussions about political alliances or preferred candidates for the 2028 elections, as his attention remains on governance matters and major international preparations.
In an interview with GMA Integrated News’ Unang Balita, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President’s meetings have been centered on upcoming ASEAN engagements and consultations with economic teams aimed at strengthening the country’s condition.
“Sa totoo lang kapag nakakasama natin ang Pangulo sa pagme-meeting, hindi po talaga napag-uusapan sa ngayon ang politika patungkol dyan,” Castro said.
Castro made the statement when asked how Marcos might respond to Vice President Sara Duterte’s announcement that she intends to run for president in 2028.
She then drew a contrast between leaders who prioritize elections and those who focus on long-term national direction.
“If you’re a politician, you will think of the next election. But if you are a statesman, you will think of the next generation,” Castro said.
“So, yung mga nag-iisip ngayon ng politika, ang aga-aga, alam mo na ang nasa dibdib, para i-angat ang sarili, i-promote agad ang sarili. Hindi iniisip na i-promote ang bansa,” she added.
Asked about speculation surrounding a possible tandem between Duterte and Senator Imee Marcos, Castro responded with a remark suggesting the idea was being framed as a “girl power” pairing.
“Parang Powerpuff Girls lang. Kulang pa ng isa. Girl power daw. Ramdamin ng buong Pilipinas ang kanilang power. Team Itim Power ‘yan actually. Hindi girl power,” Castro said.
Senator Marcos and Duterte previously appeared together in a political advertisement with the theme “Itim,” which they said symbolized correcting what they described as the country being on the “wrong path.”
Castro said she has not yet discussed the rumored Sara-Imee tandem with President Marcos.
