Vice President Starts 2028 Campaign in Speech to the Nation
Sara Duterte made it clear to the public that she wants to run for president next time. On Wednesday, she made the announcement during a live stream from Manila. Her announcement is a big change in the political scene in the Philippines.
Duterte talked about her personal responsibilities and family legacy during her speech. She said it took her a long time to realize what her duty was to the people. She framed the decision as a promise to serve the country.

Source: BBC/Website
Duterte Asks Supporters to Forgive Him for Joining Forces with Marcos
She asked her supporters to forgive her for supporting Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier. Duterte supported Marcos during the presidential race in 2021. Their partnership fell apart badly after she was accused of corruption in 2024.
When authorities arrested former president Rodrigo Duterte, the relationship got worse. Marcos agreed to work with international warrants that were related to ICC cases. These actions made the political differences between the 2 families even bigger.
Country’s Persistent Challenges Shape Campaign Narrative
Duterte said that corruption, poverty, and rising living costs were the main issues in his campaign. She said that the Philippines needs stronger leaders to deal with these issues. She talked a lot about giving up things and working hard for the good of the country.
If she is elected, she promised to spend her life and energy serving the public. Her speech tried to reach out to voters who wanted stability in a time of national unrest. Disputes over governance and economic pressures are still the main topics of public conversation.
Recommended Article: Zelenskyy Demands Fair Peace Talks Before Geneva Meeting
Impeachment Complaints Add Pressure To Duterte’s Political Future
Duterte has been the subject of many complaints in the House of Representatives. The accusations include using public money for personal gain and threats against Marcos. These events make people pay even more attention to her leadership and candidacy.
The timing of her announcement comes at a time when political tensions are rising. Formal impeachment proceedings could affect how credible she seems to voters who haven’t made up their minds yet. She has a tough road ahead of her if she wants to get more votes.
Former President Duterte Awaits ICC Confirmation Of Charges
Rodrigo Duterte’s legal problems are still a big deal in national politics. The International Criminal Court is getting ready to confirm the charges against him. Allegations involve crimes against humanity that are connected to deaths in the drug war.
The trial is putting a lot of stress on the whole Duterte family. Analysts think the vice president’s announcement is meant to keep her group together. Legal threats make things less certain for political allies who are trying to figure out what to do next.
Analysts Say Bid Intended To Prevent Fragmentation Within Bloc
Political scientist Cleve Arguelles talked about the strategic reasons behind her move. He said that the rising legal risk makes it very likely that allies will leave. Duterte’s statement may be an attempt to stop her coalition from breaking up too soon.
Arguelles used metaphors from crisis management to explain what was going on. He said that groups under stress may either look for lifeboats or push their rivals out of the way. Duterte’s campaign launch is meant to bring people together before they become even more divided.
Presidential Race Likely To Intensify As Stakes Continue Rising
The announcement changes the early dynamics of the 2028 election. Duterte is running for office in the middle of complicated political rivalries and legal battles. After recent changes in government institutions, people still have mixed feelings.
Her candidacy means that both political families will be looked at more closely. The ICC trial and impeachment complaints that are happening now add more unknowns. As campaigns start to take shape, the Philippines is at a crucial point.












