MANILA, Philippines — Senator Robin Padilla announced on Friday, February 20, 2026, that he is willing to run as the vice presidential running mate of Sara Duterte in the 2028 elections, despite previous statements that he would retire from politics.
However, the action star-turned-politician set a specific condition: he will only run if former President Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte personally orders him to do so.
Key Highlights:
- A Change of Heart: Last month, Padilla’s wife, Mariel Rodriguez, stated that the senator would no longer seek elective office in 2028 due to the “unappreciative” nature of the public. Padilla admitted he “really doesn’t want to run anymore,” but he remains loyal to the elder Duterte.
- The “Order”: Padilla stressed that the former president is the only person who can influence his political career. “As long as it is Digong saying it, I will follow,” he told reporters.
- “Born Ready”: Despite his reluctance, Padilla stated he is “born ready” for the VP position, which he described as a “spare tire” role focused primarily on advocacy work.
- Political Hierarchy: Padilla acknowledged he is a newcomer and suggested a “hierarchy” of potential running mates for Sara Duterte, placing Sen. Imee Marcos at the top, followed by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, Sen. Bong Go, and Sen. Bato dela Rosa.
- Handling Criticism: Dismissing his detractors, Padilla noted he has already been called an “ex-convict, stupid, and womanizer,” and such labels no longer bother him.
Context of the Announcement
The statement follows Vice President Sara Duterte’s early declaration on Wednesday that she will seek the presidency in 2028. Meanwhile, former President Rodrigo Duterte remains in an ICC detention facility in The Hague, Netherlands, awaiting the confirmation of charges against him for crimes against humanity.