Senator Bam Aquino Dismisses 2028 Vice Presidential Rumors, Calls for Focus on National Priorities
Senator Bam Aquino has categorically rejected swirling rumors that he will run as vice president in the 2028 elections. In a clear statement, he urged fellow leaders to set aside early political maneuvering and concentrate attention on the country's most urgent problems.
Clarification Amid Speculation
Aquino issued the clarification on Thursday, February 19, 2026, after online speculation emerged suggesting a potential tandem with Sara Duterte, who has previously announced her plan to run for president in 2028. In a brief Facebook post, Aquino denied any possibility of becoming Duterte's running mate and clarified a report hinting at a Duterte–Aquino partnership.
The rumors intensified after Aquino remarked in a television interview that any murder-as-a-crime-against-humanity case against former President Rodrigo Duterte would be better resolved within the Philippines. However, he later clarified that he respects the processes of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Emphasis on National Issues Over Politics
Beyond dismissing political gossip, Aquino stressed that government officials must focus on immediate national issues rather than premature election discussions. "It is embarrassing to engage in politics while the people are going through so much," Aquino stated. "Our country is facing numerous challenges in education, in the economy, in the rising cost of goods, and in the fight against corruption. These are what we must prioritize, not political maneuvering."
Aquino emphasized that he remains focused on crafting legislation that directly benefits Filipinos, particularly students and youth. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, he has pushed several priority bills included in the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council agenda.
Key Legislative Initiatives
These include the Classroom-Building Acceleration Program (CAP) Act, which aims to address the nation's 166,000 classroom shortage by allowing local governments and qualified non-government organizations to construct classrooms in their areas under Department of Education standards. Recently, the Senate approved the CAP Act and the Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (Cadena) Act, also known as the "Blockchain the Budget Bill," on third and final reading.
According to Aquino, these reforms demonstrate the type of governance Filipinos need today—solutions that address real problems instead of early political campaigning.
