Vice President Sara Duterte has revealed that she is “seriously considering” running for president in 2028, marking a shift from her previous stance. Speaking to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during a private trip to Japan, Duterte expressed her concerns over the country’s perceived backsliding and emphasized the importance of a united front to address the nation’s challenges.
“We are seriously considering,” Duterte said during a meet-and-greet event in Tokyo. “What’s happening to the country now can no longer continue. We see the country continuously backsliding. I really believe our country can be great.”
This marks a change from her earlier comments, where she stated she would decide in 2026 whether to pursue a presidential bid. The Vice President acknowledged the complexity of government reforms but expressed her commitment to tackling the tough issues facing the nation.
“It is difficult to make our countrymen understand how difficult the things we have to do are because we really have to stand firm, especially with government policies that need fixing,” Duterte added. “But I believe that if the people are united, and we know where we are going, our people can do it.”
The Office of the Vice President confirmed Duterte’s private trip to Japan, where she also visited various OFW groups. Although the OVP did not specify when she returned, it confirmed that she is back in Manila.
𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆
On January 13, Duterte expressed gratitude toward members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) for their rally supporting President Marcos’ stance against her impeachment. The INC-organized event was a call for unity and peace, with the church urging lawmakers to halt the impeachment proceedings against Duterte.
“I sincerely send my greetings to everyone who participated in today’s massive peace rally. This is a powerful display of unity and faith, and whose only desire is peace toward the development of our country,” Duterte said in a statement.
The INC’s peaceful rally was held across several cities, with a focus on Manila and Pasay, where work and classes were suspended to allow for participation. The rally echoed President Marcos’ rejection of calls to impeach the Vice President, who has faced multiple allegations of misconduct, including the misuse of confidential funds and controversial public statements.
Duterte thanked the INC for their continued efforts in promoting unity, especially during difficult times marked by rising commodity prices and widespread poverty.
𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗜𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝘀 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁
Despite the ongoing political challenges, including impeachment complaints filed against her by various groups, Duterte remains firm in her belief that she can successfully defend herself. The complaints, which accuse her of violating the 1987 Constitution, stem from her time as Davao City mayor and Secretary of Education. Allegations largely focus on her supposed misuse of office funds and criticisms leveled at President Marcos and his family.
Duterte, however, is undeterred by the impeachment cases. She expressed confidence in her legal team, which includes her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who will represent her in potential legal battles.
As political developments continue to unfold, all eyes will be on Sara Duterte as she navigates her future political aspirations and faces mounting scrutiny over her role in the current administration. The path to the 2028 election, alongside ongoing controversies, will likely shape her next steps in the coming years.
