Sen. Robin Padilla confirmed he is willing to run as the vice presidential candidate of Vice President Sara Duterte in the 2028 elections if former President Rodrigo Duterte instructs him to do so.
Padilla said he is open to the possibility but stressed that the decision should first follow what he described as a political “hierarchy,” giving priority to those with longer experience in public service.
He identified Sen. Imee Marcos as first in that hierarchy, followed by Sen. Alan Cayetano, Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go and Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
Padilla said it would not be appropriate for him to be considered ahead of more senior politicians, noting that he is relatively new to politics compared to others in the list.
The senator expressed confidence that if he eventually becomes Duterte’s running mate in 2028, he would be able to fulfill the role. He described the vice presidency as similar to being a “spare tire” for the president, adding that it mainly involves advocacy work.
Padilla did not announce a formal candidacy but made clear his willingness to follow the direction of the former president regarding a potential tandem with the vice president.
The 2028 national elections are still years away, but early political alignments and possible tandems have begun to draw public attention as prominent figures signal their positions.
