Vice President Sara Duterte has declared herself the leading candidate for the 2028 presidential race, claiming that efforts to impeach her and the arrest of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, are politically motivated attempts to undermine her chances.
Speaking in an interview with Russian media—shared by the Office of the Vice President—Duterte alleged that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is trying to cling to power, suggesting that moves against her and her father are part of a broader strategy to eliminate political threats.
“It’s clear that this administration wants to keep power within the Marcos family,” Duterte said, alleging that her rising popularity has made her a target. “They think removing former President Duterte will weaken me, but we are one family, one brand.”
Duterte has not yet officially announced a 2028 run, stating she’ll decide by the last quarter of 2026. Despite political tensions, she said she holds no personal resentment against Marcos but criticized his leadership and alleged constitutional violations—particularly regarding her father’s international case.
The Office of the President has yet to comment officially, but Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro responded sharply, defending Marcos’ governance and accusing Duterte of political drama: “The President is focused on work, not politicking.”
Once united as running mates in 2022, Marcos and Duterte now stand on opposing sides of the political spectrum, with investigations into Duterte’s confidential funds and her father’s controversial policies straining their alliance.