APRIL 29, 2026 — Former Marcos loyalists have stepped into the spotlight, rallying behind a proposed Sara Duterte–Chavit Singson tandem for the 2028 elections, signaling a fresh wave of political maneuvering that could reshape alliances and voter sentiment in the years ahead.

In a press conference held in Quezon City, a group calling itself the Sara-Chavit 2028 Nationwide Movement declared its support for Vice President Sara Duterte’s presidential bid and pushed for former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson as her running mate. The group, composed of self-identified “former loyalists” of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his late father, said they united immediately after Duterte’s February 28 announcement that she would run for president.

“Mula nang marinig namin ang opisyal na deklarasyon ng ating VP Sara Duterte noong February 28 na siya ay tatakbo bilang Pangulo ng bansang Pilipinas, agad kaming nagkaisa at nag-ugnayan upang pag-usapan ang matibay at nagkakaisang suporta sa tambalang Duterte-Singson,” the group said. 

(Ever since we heard the official declaration of VP Sara Duterte last February 28 that she will run for President of the Philippines, we immediately united and coordinated to discuss our strong and unified support for the Duterte-Singson tandem.)

Why Sara, why Chavit?

The movement emphasized Duterte’s track record as Davao City mayor, saying her local governance experience could translate into national progress. 

“Ipinapakita ni Inday Sara Duterte ang kanyang husay sa paglilingkod … makikita natin ang tunay na kaunlaran, at ito ay kayang gawin sa buong bansang Pilipinas,” they added. 

(Inday Sara Duterte shows her excellence in service … we can see real progress, and this can be done for the entire Philippines.)

As for Singson, the group described him as a “true public servant” with a proven record in Ilocos Sur. They admitted they have not formally discussed the endorsement with him, but insisted his leadership style and reputation make him a natural fit. 

“Kami, mga former Marcos loyalists … ay nagkasundo na kung wala pang pormal na deklarasyon para sa Pangalawang Pangulo, ay itinutulak namin si Manong Chavit Singson dahil nakita namin ang kanyang pamumuno sa Ilocos Sur,” they said.

(We, former Marcos loyalists … agreed that if there is no formal declaration yet for the vice presidency, we are pushing Manong Chavit Singson because we saw his leadership in Ilocos Sur.)

This endorsement is more than just a political pairing — it reflects shifting loyalties and the search for continuity beyond the Marcos administration. A multi-sector alliance has also joined the push, launching a “Sara-Chavit 2028” caravan with civic groups, business leaders, religious organizations, and retired military officers, framing the tandem as a blend of leadership, accountability, and stability.

The movement wants to present Duterte and Singson as a team that can deliver economic growth, peace, and national development. Whether this tandem gains traction will depend on how voters weigh experience, trust, and the promise of fresh leadership against the backdrop of dynastic politics.

What’s your take? Do you see this tandem as a genuine path to progress or just another chapter in the country’s long story of political dynasties?

(Image: Philippine News Agency)