Vice President Sara Duterte expressed hope that the Philippines would hold a credible presidential election in 2028, stressing the need for the process to remain honest, orderly, and peaceful. Speaking in an interview in The Hague, Netherlands, on May 5, 2026 (Philippine time), Duterte said she already considers herself a potential contender after publicly declaring her intention to run for president.
Presumptive Candidacy
“As I’ve said, I already consider myself a presumptive candidate,” Duterte said. Despite her plans, the vice president acknowledged the uncertainty of the future and expressed hope that the country would still be able to conduct a proper election in 2028. “We can only pray that there will be a presidential election in 2028 and it will be honest, orderly, and peaceful,” she added.
Warning Against Misinformation
Duterte also warned the public about misinformation and manipulation in politics, particularly on social media. “Politics can really get dirty,” she said. “Filipinos need to learn how to discern because information circulating on social media can be manipulated.” She noted that some groups intentionally shape online narratives to influence public opinion and create the impression that certain views are either widely supported or unpopular.
Malacañang Response
Malacañang responded to Duterte’s remarks, with Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro saying the vice president appeared eager to discuss the 2028 elections. “We can see the vice president’s eagerness to talk about the 2028 elections,” Castro said. She added that the administration remains focused on pressing national and global concerns, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. Castro also dismissed Duterte’s remarks as politically motivated. “These kinds of statements from the vice president are mere intrigue and baseless stories,” she said.
Earlier Announcement and Polls
Duterte earlier announced in February that she intends to run in the 2028 presidential elections. Meanwhile, a Pulse Asia survey conducted from Feb. 27 to March 2 showed Duterte tied with Raffy Tulfo at 46 percent in presidential preference ratings. In a separate matchup, Duterte led Leni Robredo, 51 percent to 43 percent.
