Advertisement
Why Philippines Vice-President Sara Duterte is launching her 2028 presidential bid now
Analysts say the vice-president’s timing aims to deter defections and harden political lines ahead of a prolonged contest
Reading Time:4 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio announced on Wednesday that she will run for president in 2028, formally declaring a bid long widely expected as her political camp confronts mounting legal and institutional pressure.
“I offer my life, my strength and my future in the service of our nation,” she said in announcing her candidacy. “I am Sara Duterte. I will run for president of the Philippines.”
The daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte used her brief speech to accuse President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr of corruption and of failing to honour commitments made during the alliance that delivered them a landslide victory in the 2022 election.
Advertisement
“In the first few months of our terms, I already saw Bongbong Marcos Jnr’s lack of sincerity regarding the promises made during the campaign, as well as his sworn duty to the nation,” the vice-president said, using Marcos’ nickname.
Philippines’ Sara Duterte to run for president
Philippines’ Sara Duterte to run for president
The feud between the Duterte and Marcos clans, simmering within weeks of their election victory, exploded into public warfare in 2025.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Select Voice
Select Speed
1.00x