The opposition’s path to the 2028 presidential race grew significantly more complicated Tuesday after Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo declared she would not pursue a national post, choosing instead to seek a second term leading her city.
“I’m already certain in myself that I won’t run for national (in 2028),” Robredo told radio dwNX. “Most probably, I will seek a second term (as Naga City mayor).”
The announcement landed hard among allies who had been counting on her as the opposition’s strongest presidential prospect. Political commentator and lawyer Jesus Falcis III described the declaration as sending “shockwaves” through Robredo’s base, adding that only the constituents of Naga held any real power to change her mind.
Former Senate president Franklin Drilon said he was caught off guard. The Liberal Party stalwart pointed out that Robredo’s withdrawal ran counter to an understanding among opposition figures to collectively work toward choosing a unified standard bearer for 2028.
With Robredo out of the picture, names already circulating include Senators Risa Hontiveros and Bam Aquino. Drilon said either could serve as the unified opposition’s candidate should Robredo hold firm. Former presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda echoed this, noting that survey data showed measurably stronger numbers for both senators in scenarios where Robredo is not listed as a contender.
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Robredo’s running mate in 2022, stopped short of accepting the decision as final. While acknowledging the opposition’s respect for her position, he wrote on Facebook that he believes Robredo remains the figure best positioned to unite the country and push for genuine governance reform.
“We respect her decision even as we disagree with it and believe that the national interest will be best served if at some future time she changes her mind and heeds the growing clamor of the people for her to lead the nation’s fight for genuine service and good governance,” he wrote.
Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima said the group understood Robredo’s commitment to Naga and Bicol, but stopped short of closing the door on a reversal.
Robredo’s name had continued to gain traction in early preference surveys despite her absence from national politics since losing the 2022 presidential race. An unreleased OCTA Research poll cited by group president Ranjit Rye showed Vice President Sara Duterte leading at 33 percent for 2028, with Robredo trailing at 21 percent — a gap that had been narrowing heading into Tuesday’s announcement.
Duterte, who declared her own presidential intentions amid an ongoing feud with President Marcos, is currently the subject of impeachment complaints involving alleged betrayal of public trust and the misuse of confidential funds.
