Vice President Sara Duterte confirmed she has already recruited a running mate for her 2028 presidential bid, though she did not reveal the person’s identity.
She said the recruitment happened last year but is pending the individual’s decision.
Duterte was the first to announce her 2028 presidential run and staged the announcement independently of the Office of the Vice President, even removing official symbols from the backdrop.
Her choice of black attire symbolized her protest against the administration of former President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, with whom her political alliance has soured.
Political analysts note that her early declaration puts pressure on political clans to choose sides, while speculation continues over who her running mate might be.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 23, 2026
