VP Sara Says She Has Already Recruited Potential 2028 Running Mate

Vice President Sara Duterte revealed that she has already identified a possible running mate for the 2028 presidential elections, days after formally declaring her intention to seek the country’s top post.

In an interview over SMNI, Duterte disclosed that she has been recruiting the individual since last year, although she declined to publicly name the person for now.

“I have already recruited someone. I have been recruiting the person since last year. But let us not discuss that right now,” Duterte said.

According to the Vice President, the potential vice presidential candidate would take the lead in ensuring accountability among government officials accused of corruption if they are elected in 2028.

“It’s not in the history of my work to take revenge. But I’m telling you this – there can’t be anyone spared from accountability. The one that I’m recruiting to be vice president will take charge of making wrongdoers in government accountable, so I can focus on my job as president,” she said in Filipino.

Duterte also emphasized that her decision to run was personal, noting that only her speechwriter, husband, and children were aware of her plans prior to the public announcement made on February 18.

She confirmed that even her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, was informed of her decision only days later through his legal counsel.

Addressing questions about her leadership style, Duterte maintained that she does not harbor a vengeful disposition.

“I can do difficult things – that is my core competency, because I don’t get cowed easily… Nobody can force me to do things,” she said.

The Vice President also ruled out the possibility of stepping down from her current post amid ongoing political challenges, including impeachment complaints filed against her.

“I will not resign. If there is an impeachment, have me impeached,” she added.

While acknowledging the complexity of the country’s long-standing problems, Duterte said meaningful reforms would require sustained efforts across multiple administrations.

“To turn the country around, you would need 30 years. There should be a long-term continuity… If you would work non-stop it would take 25 years,” she said.

Meanwhile, Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. noted that any potential matchup between Duterte and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo in the 2028 race would ultimately hinge on the candidates’ track records and integrity.

“Both have been local chief executives in their own turf, and both have been elected and served as VPs. But the bottom line here is track record – what’s the track record of Leni? Of Sara?” Abante said.

Former Bagong Henerasyon party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera, for her part, welcomed Duterte’s early announcement, saying it offers voters clarity as the country looks ahead to the next national elections.