A potential “Raffy-Risa” tandem in the 2028 national elections could emerge as the most formidable opposition slate against Vice President Sara Duterte, according to University of the Philippines (UP) Political Science Professor Ranjit Rye.
Rye, who also serves as President of OCTA Research, said the possible pairing of Senator Raffy Tulfo and Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros could form a “competitive tandem” against Duterte, who remains the frontrunner in early surveys for the 2028 presidential race.
“Raffy Tulfo is the second most preferred [to Sara Duterte]. When you look at tandems, the most competitive for the non-Duterte side is Tulfo-Risa Hontiveros,” Rye said during a televised interview.
Rye, however, clarified that the 2028 elections are still several years away and that voter preferences may shift as the political landscape evolves.
“It came out in the survey, we have to validate that. These are preliminary and it will change over time,” he added.
Earlier surveys show Duterte maintaining a wide lead in the presidential race, followed by Tulfo and former Vice President and now Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, who are vying closely for second place.
As for the vice-presidential race, Senators Bong Go and Bam Aquino—both top finishers in the 2025 senatorial elections—are seen as the leading contenders for the post.