Sara Duterte Announces 2028 Presidential Bid Amid Political Turmoil
Vice President Sara Duterte formally declared on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, that she will run for president in the 2028 national elections. This announcement positions her as the standard-bearer of her father's political legacy, former president Rodrigo Duterte, amidst intensifying political tensions across the Philippines.
Duterte's Declaration and Political Platform
In a bold statement, Duterte confirmed long-running speculation about her ambitions, saying, "Ako si Sara Duterte, tatakbo sa 2028 Elections" (I am Sara Duterte. I will run in the 2028 elections). She emphasized that her campaign will revive the "Tapang at Malasakit" (Courage and Compassion) brand closely associated with her father's administration, aiming to resonate with voters seeking continuity and strong leadership.
Budget Dispute and Impeachment Battle
Duterte cited her opposition to the proposed 2025 national budget as a pivotal moment in her political journey. She alleged that the spending plan was riddled with corruption, leading to her resignation from the Cabinet. "Dahil hindi ko kinayang maging bahagi ng 2025 national budget na tadtad ng katiwalian, pinili kong umalis sa gabinete—kahit na alam ko na, mula pa noong 2023, na ang magiging kapalit nito ay ang aking impeachment," she stated. This move sparked a bitter feud with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., resulting in her impeachment. However, the Supreme Court of the Philippines eventually dismissed the case on procedural grounds, a decision that could have otherwise barred her from public office under the Constitution.
Escalating Duterte-Marcos Rift
The once-powerful alliance between the Duterte and Marcos political clans began unraveling shortly after their 2022 electoral victory and erupted into open conflict by 2025. This feud has since dominated the country's political landscape. Just days before Duterte's announcement, the House of Representatives justice committee dismissed two impeachment complaints against Marcos, citing insufficient substance. Meanwhile, members of the Philippine clergy filed another impeachment complaint against Duterte on February 9, marking the third such complaint against her within a week, highlighting the ongoing political volatility.
ICC Proceedings and Broader Political Fallout
Duterte's declaration coincides with former President Rodrigo Duterte preparing to attend a pre-trial hearing before the International Criminal Court in the Netherlands. This hearing, scheduled over four days, will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial over alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration's anti-drug campaign, adding complexity to the political climate. On another front, President Marcos is grappling with controversies over allegedly fraudulent flood-control projects that cost taxpayers billions of pesos, ensnaring allies and critics alike, including a congressman who is also his cousin.
Looking Ahead to the 2028 Election
Despite the turbulence, Duterte framed her candidacy as a call to national service, stating, "I offer my life, my strength, and my future in the service of our nation." The 2028 election is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests in recent Philippine history, with political dynasties, legal battles, and corruption allegations shaping the road ahead, promising a fierce and transformative political battle.
