FEBRUARY 18, 2026 — Vice President Sara Duterte has finally dropped the reticence and gone all in: she’s running for president in 2028. On February 18, she stood before the press, stripped the podium of the Vice President’s seal, and declared, “Ako si Sara Duterte. Tatakbo bilang pangulo ng Pilipinas.” 

(I am Sara Duterte. I will run for president of the Philippines.)

It was a short, sharp announcement — no questions entertained, no podium branding, just a blunt statement of intent. But the brevity didn’t blunt the impact. Duterte’s words carried a mix of defiance and inevitability, especially after years of speculation, denials, and political maneuvering.

She also issued an apology to the Filipino people, acknowledging her role in backing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and expressing regret over “institutional abuses and widespread corruption” that she said left Filipinos vulnerable to floods and crises. 

That’s a rare admission in Philippine politics, and one that could either humanize her or haunt her, depending on how voters interpret it. Some may also argue it’s merely about pushing forward her “brand” and compelling the people to take sides.

The timing is striking. Duterte faces impeachment complaints and a fractured alliance with Marcos Jr., yet she’s already planting her flag for 2028. Is this boldness or desperation? We know the Duterte brand — tapang at malasakit (courage and compassion) — but will that slogan resonate in a country still grappling with inflation, climate disasters, and political fatigue?

Her announcement also raises uncomfortable questions: Will her candidacy deepen the Duterte-Marcos rift? Can she distance herself from the baggage of her father’s presidency while carving her own path? And most importantly, does her promise of unity and service ring true, or is it just another campaign line in a nation weary of recycled political dynasties?

Sara Duterte has set the stage. The question now is whether the Filipino people are ready to give her the spotlight — or turn it off.

Are we really about to hand the reins to another Duterte, or will 2028 be the year we finally break free from the grip of political dynasties?

(Image: Youtube)