Former Vice President and now Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo appears to have dismissed calls for a possible run in the 2028 presidential elections, saying she would rather remain in Naga to address the local issues of her constituents.
In a brief chat with journalist Dindo Balares, he noted that based on Robredo’s actions, she prefers to stay in her local post rather than return to national politics.
Balares also mentioned informing Robredo about reports that former Bacolod City Mayor and Congressman Monico Puentevella was set to visit to persuade—or even “kneel”—to convince her to run again in national politics.
However, Robredo firmly replied: “Naku, dito na lang ako sa Naga. Andami-daming problemang dapat asikasuhin dito. Mas magagawa nating ayusin dito. Sila na lang doon, ang gugulo nila.”
Since assuming office as Chief Executive of the city, Robredo has reportedly attracted more tourists and investors to Naga.
City Hall has also been receiving delegations from other local government units (LGUs) seeking exposure and immersion in local governance practices.
According to Balares, Robredo’s decision demonstrates that change does not have to come from “Imperial Manila”; it can start in cities and towns outside the country’s political center.
“Kung hindi kayang magsindi ng transformational leadership at pagbabago ang Malacañang, Senado, at House of Representatives, puwede itong gawin sa mga bayan at siyudad,” he said.
Robredo ran for president in the 2022 elections but lost to President Bongbong Marcos.
Election experts noted that Robredo’s campaign faced disinformation propagated by some supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Despite this, she still garnered over 15 million votes and continues to be recognized as the face of the true opposition.