Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte Announces Bid for 2028 Presidency Amid Controversy
Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte revealed her presidential aspirations on Wednesday, confirming her candidacy for the 2028 election. This move follows years of political turmoil, including her father’s ongoing trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity.
Duterte, the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is notorious for his “war on drugs,” delivered a heartfelt speech during a livestreamed address, acknowledging the weight of her decision. “It took me 47 years to understand that my life was never meant to be only mine,” she said, emphasizing her deep commitment to serving her country.
In a bold admission, Duterte also expressed regret for her previous support of current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a stance that has since created a bitter rivalry between the two leaders. Duterte stated, “I offer my life, my strength, and my future in the service of our nation.”
Despite once aligning herself with Marcos during the 2022 presidential race, Duterte’s relationship with the president has soured, particularly following a corruption investigation into her actions and Marcos’s approval of her father’s arrest in connection with the ICC’s charges.
Duterte’s announcement comes at a challenging time for her political career, as she faces multiple impeachment complaints in the House of Representatives over allegations of corruption and making a death threat against Marcos. Adding to the political tension, her father’s trial in The Hague for crimes related to his drug war continues to cast a shadow over her candidacy.
Political analyst Cleve Arguelles believes the announcement may be an effort to stabilize Duterte’s political position in light of increasing legal risks. “When legal risk rises, so does the temptation to defect early to save one’s own skin,” Arguelles said.
Duterte’s bid for the presidency signals a pivotal moment in the Philippines’ ongoing political crisis, as the country grapples with corruption, poverty, and political polarization.
