MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has formally declared her candidacy for the 2028 Philippine presidential election, setting the stage for one of the most consequential political contests in recent Philippine history. Her announcement on February 18, 2026, makes her the first major figure to launch a public campaign for the 2028 presidency.
A Bid Marked by Ambition and Controversy
In a public address, Duterte said her decision to run was rooted in a renewed sense of purpose and national duty. “It took me 47 years to understand that my life was never meant to be only mine,” she said, pledging her “life, strength, and future” to serving the Filipino people.
Her speech also included an apology to voters for endorsing incumbent President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the 2022 elections, acknowledging that the alliance did not deliver the outcomes many hoped for.
Political Tensions and Impeachment Challenges
Duterte’s presidential bid comes amid significant political turbulence. She is currently facing multiple impeachment complaints and criminal allegations, including accusations of misusing confidential funds and unexplained wealth—claims her legal team vehemently denies.
Her relationship with President Marcos has sharply deteriorated since their 2022 campaign, evolving into public political rivalry. Duterte has criticized Marcos’s administration for issues like corruption, inflation, and mismanagement in sectors such as healthcare.
What’s at Stake for 2028
The 2028 presidential election, scheduled to take place as part of the Philippines’ general elections, will shape not just the presidency but the country’s broader direction on governance, economic policy, and foreign relations. The incumbent president, Marcos, is constitutionally barred from seeking reelection, creating a wide-open field for new leadership.
Political analysts suggest Duterte’s early move into the race is strategic, aiming to control the narrative and consolidate support ahead of her rivals. However, the combination of political attacks, controversies, and legal scrutiny could also intensify the challenges she faces.
A Turning Point in Philippine Politics
Sara Duterte’s bid represents a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape. As the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, she carries a powerful political legacy, while also facing scrutiny for her actions and alliances. Whether her campaign will reshape Philippine leadership in the next decade remains one of the most closely watched developments in Southeast Asian politics.
