Robin Padilla open to 2028 VP run only if Duterte orders — Loyalty or lack of independence?
Margret Dianne Fermin • Ipinost noong 2026-02-20 17:06:00
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Robin Padilla has signaled openness to running for vice president in the 2028 national elections, but only if former President Rodrigo Duterte personally instructs him to do so.
Speaking at a press conference on February 20, 2026, Padilla emphasized that Duterte remains the only person whose word could compel him to seek the country’s second-highest post.
“If it’s Digong’s order. If it’s Digong’s order, no one else can give me orders, only Digong,” Padilla said, recalling that it was Duterte who encouraged him to enter politics and run for the Senate in 2022. He added, “Kapag utos ni Digong. Walang pwedeng mag-utos sa akin kahit sino, si Digong lang. Kasi ayaw ko talaga ng pulitika. Alam naman lahat ng nanay ko, mga kapatid ko, asawa ko. Basta sinabi ni Digong, susunod ako.”
Padilla, who topped the senatorial race in 2022 under the BBM-Sara slate, has consistently expressed loyalty to the Duterte family. He previously floated the idea of serving as campaign manager for Vice President Sara Duterte and Senator Imee Marcos in the 2028 elections, even suggesting an “all-girl tandem” before Duterte herself announced her presidential bid.
Vice President Sara Duterte formally declared her candidacy for president in 2028 earlier this week, ending speculation about her political plans. Padilla’s remarks now fuel discussions about potential running mates and alliances that could shape the electoral landscape.
Political analysts note that Padilla’s statement underscores the enduring influence of Rodrigo Duterte in Philippine politics, even after leaving office. His possible endorsement could carry significant weight in determining the composition of major tandems for the upcoming elections.
For now, Padilla maintains that he has no personal ambition for the vice presidency, reiterating that his decision will rest entirely on Duterte’s directive. The senator’s declaration adds another layer of intrigue to the evolving dynamics of the 2028 race, where early alignments are already beginning to take shape.