MANILA – Senator Bam Aquino has firmly dismissed widespread speculation that he intends to run for vice president in the 2028 elections, calling on fellow political leaders to set aside premature campaign discussions and concentrate instead on the country's most pressing challenges. Aquino issued this clarification on Thursday, February 19, 2026, following online rumors that suggested a potential political partnership with Sara Duterte, who previously announced her plans to seek the presidency in 2028.
Denial of Political Partnership
In a concise statement shared on his official Facebook page, Aquino explicitly denied any intention to serve as Duterte's running mate and criticized a news report that hinted at a Duterte-Aquino alliance. The speculation gained momentum after Aquino remarked in a television interview that any trial involving former President Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity should, ideally, take place on Philippine soil. He later clarified that he respects the ongoing proceedings of the International Criminal Court, aiming to correct any misinterpretations.
Focus on National Priorities
Beyond refuting the political rumors, Aquino emphasized that public officials must prioritize urgent national concerns over early election talk. He stated, "It is embarrassing to engage in politics while the people are going through so much. 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 added that while discussions about the 2028 elections will have their appropriate time, they should not overshadow immediate national needs. "The 2028 elections will come in due time, and there will be a proper moment to discuss them. But for now, what we must talk about are the matters that are important to the people," he asserted.
Legislative Achievements and Future Goals
Aquino, who was elected to the Senate in 2025 and is currently serving a six-year term, reiterated his commitment to advancing legislative measures that directly benefit Filipinos, particularly students and young people. As the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, he has championed several priority bills now included in the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council agenda.
Among these key measures is the Classroom-Building Acceleration Program (CAP) Act, which aims to address the country's significant shortage of 166,000 classrooms by empowering local government units and qualified non-governmental organizations to construct classrooms in their jurisdictions, adhering to Department of Education standards. Additionally, the Senate recently 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.
Aquino concluded that these reforms exemplify the type of governance Filipinos require today: practical solutions that address real problems rather than premature political campaigns. He remains dedicated to his legislative duties, focusing on impactful policies over electoral speculation.
