Speculation over a possible Sara Duterte–Rodante Marcoleta tandem in the 2028 national elections has intensified after former Davao del Norte Governor Anthony del Rosario, Secretary-General of Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP), identified Senator Rodante Marcoleta as a likely vice-presidential running mate for the Vice President.
In a television interview, del Rosario said Marcoleta stands out as a potential partner for VP Sara due to what he described as their similar leadership styles.
“What if she became President? She would have to choose from the Senate or the House, right? The first person I said was Marcoleta,” del Rosario stated.
He added, “I don’t know Senator Marcoleta, but I believe that he can complement Sara’s style.”
Del Rosario noted Marcoleta’s strong potential as a 2028 vice-presidential candidate, emphasizing the senator’s unexpected rise in the 2025 midterm elections, where he secured a Senate seat despite low pre-election survey rankings.
Marcoleta, along with Senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, was considered among the “dark horses” of the 2025 senatorial race.
“I think a lot of people prior to the campaign would not have ever thought of voting for Marcoleta. But during the campaign, I think things changed, you know, ‘Let’s give him a try,’” del Rosario said.
According to several sources, other names being considered by Duterte allies as potential running mates for VP Sara include Senator Robin Padilla, Senator Imee Marcos, and Senator Bong Go — although a Duterte–Go tandem appears unlikely due to ongoing disagreements between the two, despite Go’s past role as Special Assistant to then-President Rodrigo Duterte.
For now, based on emerging pre-election surveys, Senators Bong Go and Bam Aquino — who both topped the 2025 senatorial elections — are seen as potential frontrunners in the 2028 vice-presidential race.