Popular TV host and comedian Vice Ganda made a high-profile appeal to former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, urging her to join the 2028 presidential race despite her repeated assertions that she intends to remain in local governance.
The appeal took place during the Isarog International Hot Air Balloon and Music Festival on Friday night, where Vice Ganda used a blend of emotional tribute and characteristic humor to voice what he described as a collective plea from the public.
“Marami pong salamat po, Ma’am Leni. Anytime po itext niyo po ako, ano mang mangyari pupuntahan at pupuntahan ko kayo. Masaya akong naririto. Lahat ng panawagan niyo sa amin didinggin namin, sana dinggin mo din ang panawagan namin,” Vice Ganda told the cheering crowd.
The comedian described Robredo as a beacon of hope for the entire nation, suggesting that the “lightness of heart” felt by Nagueños under her leadership is something the rest of the country yearns for.
“Naga is the heart, you are our heart, you are our hope. We need you to continue hoping to a wonderful future not just for our families but for the entire Philippines,” he added. “Dinggin niyo po kami. Para niyo na pong awa.”
Acknowledging Robredo’s current commitment to her three-year “2028 Finish Lines” strategic framework for Naga City, Vice Ganda jokingly reminded her that there is still a year left before the formal election season begins.
“We love you, Madam Leni, and magkita po tayo ulit sa campaign niyo. Huwag ka mapressure, next year pa tayo magaannounce,” he quipped. “Pero pagkatapos nun… baka naman. Promise po, magpapakalalaki ako tumakbo ka lang ulit. Joke lang, baka hindi ko maipangako yan.”
Robredo, who assumed the mayoralty in 2025, has consistently stated that she is not eyeing a national post in 2028, focusing instead on her “people-centered” initiatives in her hometown.
However, political speculation has intensified following recent data from OCTA Research, which showed her preference ratings surging by 12%, placing her as a top contender alongside Vice President Sara Duterte.
While the Vice President has already confirmed her intent to seek the presidency, Robredo remains steadfast in her local mandate.
“Yung pusong walang takot at pangamba, yung pusong punong puno ng pag-asa dahil alam natin tayong lahat ay pinamumunuan ng isang mabuting puso din,” Vice Ganda concluded.