Vice President Sara Duterte revealed she is “seriously considering” running for president in the 2028 elections, citing her concern over the “continued backsliding” of the country, One News PH reported. She made the statement during a meet-and-greet event with overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Tokyo, Japan, during a private trip over the weekend.
“We are seriously considering,” Duterte said when asked about her plans for 2028. “What’s happening to the country now can no longer continue. I really believe our country can be great.”
This marks a shift in Duterte’s stance, as she previously indicated she would decide in 2026 whether to pursue the presidency. Acknowledging the challenges of implementing reforms, she emphasized the importance of unity in achieving progress. “It is difficult to make our countrymen understand how tough the things we have to do are, but if we are united, our people can do it,” she added.
Duterte’s trip to Japan included visits to OFW groups, according to the Office of the Vice President (OVP), which confirmed her return to Manila earlier this week.
Meanwhile, Duterte expressed gratitude to the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) for their peace rally supporting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call against her impeachment. “This is a powerful display of unity and faith, with the shared goal of peace and development for our country,” she said in a statement.
The INC rallies, held in various locations including Manila and Pasay, called on lawmakers to dismiss impeachment complaints against Duterte. These complaints, filed by civic and political groups, alleged misuse of funds and misconduct during her tenure as Davao City mayor and Vice President.
As discussions on the impeachment complaints continue, Duterte remains confident in presenting her case, with her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, as part of her legal team.
Separately, Senator Ronald dela Rosa commented on the recent reorganization of the National Security Council (NSC) under President Marcos, which excluded the Vice President and former presidents from the advisory body. While Dela Rosa noted the move was within Marcos’ prerogative, he lamented the loss of their collective experience in shaping national security policies.
