In a significant political statement, former Mati City mayor Michelle Nakpil-Rabat has openly declared her support for Vice President Sara Duterte, setting the stage for early political alignments ahead of the 2028 national elections.
Public Endorsement During Livestream
Rabat made her position clear during her Facebook livestream program, "Magtanong kay Rabat," on January 14, 2026. Responding to viewer questions, the former mayor did not hesitate to name her preferred candidate for the country's future leadership.
"I will go for VP Sara. Taga-Mindanao ako and the same region kami," Rabat stated. She elaborated that her support stems from a personal conviction in the effectiveness of Duterte-led initiatives. "Kita naman natin siguro na maganda ang programs ng mga Duterte," she added, contrasting the current political climate with a more cautious past where people feared speaking out.
She emphasized that her endorsement comes not from any official political position but as a private citizen, feeling freer now to express her views compared to previous years.
Political Future and Family Unity
When probed about her own political plans for the 2028 elections, Rabat maintained a cautious and open stance. "Running for 2028 is an open book. We will cross the bridge when we get there," she remarked, indicating that any decision would be made based on the situation at the proper time.
Despite keeping her personal ambitions undefined, she was unequivocal about one thing: family political solidarity. "All of the Rabats will remain united in 2028 and beyond," she asserted, highlighting that whatever direction they take, family unity remains a non-negotiable priority.
Reflecting on her own career, which she likened to a Supreme Court decision that must be respected, Rabat expressed peace with her journey. "Ano [ika]konsensya ko na gihimo ko man ang tanan," she said, referring to her belief that she did her best during her service.
A Legacy of Political Influence and Rivalry
Michelle Nakpil-Rabat is a prominent political figure in Davao Oriental and a key member of the influential Nakpil-Rabat clan that dominates Mati City politics. Her political history is marked by notable victories and defeats within the family's stronghold.
In the 2025 midterm elections, Rabat, who had filed her candidacy in 2024 for a third term as mayor, lost to incumbent Mayor Joel Z. Almario. This followed her 2019 comeback where she regained the mayoralty by defeating her cousin, Carlo Luis P. Rabat, who had initially unseated her in 2013.
The Rabat family's internal rivalries have often shaped the city's political landscape, creating divisions among constituents. Rabat is the daughter of the late former governor and mayor Francisco "Paking" Rabat and former Assemblywoman Edith Nakpil-Rabat. Her cousin, Glenda Rabat-Gayta, is the current vice governor of Davao Oriental.
This early endorsement underscores the beginning of political maneuvering for the 2028 polls, with key regional figures starting to signal alliances and preferences, potentially shaping the national conversation in the years to come.
