Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV confirmed Thursday that the Magdalo group has decided to support Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros in her presidential bid for the upcoming elections.
“Kami po, ‘yong aming grupo, ‘yong Magdalo ay nakapagpasya na si Senator Risa ang susuportahan namin,” Trillanes said in an interview.
He clarified that while Magdalo remains open to participating in the broader “middle forces” coalition process, their current preference is Hontiveros.
“Ngayon, kung ano man ‘yong prosesong gagawin no’ng middle forces ay willing naman kaming lumahok pero ang preference namin sa ngayon ay si Senator Risa Hontiveros,” he added.
Trillanes noted that the group has not yet selected a running mate for Hontiveros.
“Wala pa kami punto na ‘yon but siya na po ang napagpasiyahan,” he said.
He also revealed that the decision was made weeks ago but emphasized that Magdalo will respect the coalition’s process if another candidate is chosen and Hontiveros agrees.
“‘Yon na po ang napagdesisyunan a few weeks back pero open pa rin naman ‘yong grupo ng mag-submit sa proseso na gagawin. Para kung ang mapili ay iba at pumayag naman si Senator Risa doon sa proseso na ‘yon ay we will submit to the process,” Trillanes explained.
As of now, Hontiveros has not issued a formal response. Earlier, on February 9, she said she is open to running if chosen by the United Opposition, aiming to present the strongest and most trustworthy candidate for the 2028 elections.
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte formally announced her presidential bid on February 18.