Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has expressed strong disagreement with former Vice President and now-Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo’s decision to skip the 2028 presidential race, asserting that she remains the only figure capable of unifying the Liberal Party and its diverse allies.
In a recent social media statement, Pangilinan highlighted that the Filipino people, having witnessed significant corruption scandals, “are crying out for good governance, and public accountability,” principles he believes Robredo championed during her vice presidency.
A Strategic Advantage
Pangilinan argued that Robredo’s current standing provides a stronger foundation for victory than her previous run.
He noted:
“With her at the helm going into 2028 and given her current poll numbers that are much higher now than in the run up to the 2022 Presidential elections, a formidable coalition, far broader and more inclusive than the one we forged in 2022, can be cobbled together and lead us to victory in 2028.”
The senator emphasized that the current political climate demands a collective sacrifice from those who value integrity, stating, “Now more than ever, all those who believe in meaningful change and honesty and integrity in our public institutions must come together, sacrifice our time and effort for the sake of a better future for our children.”
Risks of Disunity
Pangilinan expressed concern that Robredo’s absence from the national stage would result in a fragmented opposition.
He believes she “is in the best position to build the broadest and strongest unity not just amongst the ranks of the Liberal Party and our allies but to include all other groups and personalities outside our allied forces who are also looking to participating in the 2028 Presidential elections.”
Without her leadership, the senator fears the movement will struggle to find a suitable replacement.
“Leni’s refusal to run may create a leadership vacuum that I am afraid cannot be adequately filled by other contenders. This in turn could lead to disunity amongst our ranks and the splintering of not just our forces but of all potential allies outside our ranks.”
He warned that such a scenario would inevitably lead to multiple presidential bets from various groups, which would serve to “further weakening our chances and delivering victory to our adversaries.”
Historical Context and Current Stance
Pangilinan served as Robredo’s running mate in the 2022 elections, where they were defeated by the “UniTeam” ticket of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte.
While recent surveys place Robredo as a top contender against Vice President Duterte—who has already declared her 2028 intentions—Robredo has consistently maintained her focus on local governance.
She has reiterated her desire to seek a second term as Mayor of Naga City rather than returning to the national arena.
Despite this, Pangilinan continues to call on allies to forge the broadest possible unity “for the cause of good governance and win this for our people and work together for a better future for our children.”