Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte announced her intention to run for the presidency in the 2028 elections during a televised speech on Wednesday. This declaration comes as she faces potential impeachment proceedings in Congress and criminal complaints that could prevent her from holding public office if she is convicted.
In her address, Duterte criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., her former running mate, alleging corruption and mismanagement. Their alliance, which was a pivotal factor in the 2022 elections, has since soured, leading to a public rift marked by accusations and blame. Duterte specifically cited Marcos’ failure to fulfill campaign promises and raised concerns about government corruption, inflation, and law-and-order issues.
Impeachment and Legal Troubles Loom
The announcement of her presidential bid arrives amid fresh impeachment complaints against her, primarily focused on her alleged mishandling of $10.3 million in confidential funds from her office as vice president and her previous role as education secretary. These allegations include claims of illegal use of funds and accusations of unexplained wealth, prompting an anti-graft prosecutor to seek access to her personal bank accounts.
In a previous impeachment complaint, Duterte was able to survive a vote in the House of Representatives due to a technicality. The Supreme Court later ruled that only one impeachment case could be processed against an official in a single year, which effectively halted the proceedings against her last year.
Presidential spokesperson Claire Castro responded to Duterte’s announcement, suggesting she should apologize to the public for her alleged misdeeds and for her focus on attacking others rather than fulfilling her official duties. Castro stated, “She should ask forgiveness for focusing on destroying reputations of other people instead of doing her work and helping the government.”
Political Landscape and Future Implications
Duterte’s legal issues are compounded by her family’s turbulent history with the Marcos administration. Her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, is currently facing potential prosecution for crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court related to his controversial anti-drug policies.
During her speech, Duterte expressed a desire for public forgiveness over the current administration’s challenges and asserted that she is ready to face the allegations against her. “Politicians often avoid announcing their plans early so they wouldn’t be the target of attacks,” she said, adding that her reputation has already been harmed by the current administration.
As Duterte embarks on her presidential campaign journey, her future remains uncertain, particularly with ongoing legal challenges. The political landscape in the Philippines is shifting, with increased scrutiny on both Duterte and Marcos as they navigate their contentious relationship and the public’s growing concerns about governance and accountability.
With the next presidential election scheduled for May 2028, the implications of Duterte’s bid and the surrounding controversies will likely shape the political narrative in the Philippines for years to come.
