Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. has stated he is leaving his options open for a potential bid in the 2028 presidential race, though he underscored that fulfilling his mandate as the country’s defense chief remains his primary focus.
Speaking in a radio interview, Teodoro shared that he is willing to consider a future presidential campaign among the possibilities ahead.
“Bukas lahat ng oportunidad. Hindi ko isasara ‘yung pintuan sa kahit na anong humarap sa akin na oportunidad na ginawad ng Diyos, ginawad ng taumbayan sa atin,” Teodoro stated.
While keeping his options open, the defense head clarified that he is not yet prepared to make any formal commitment, citing unfinished responsibilities in his current Cabinet position.
“Sa ngayon hindi pa ako handang magdesisyon dahil ang dami ko pang tatapusin,” he added.
Teodoro pointed out that concentrating on political maneuvers for the 2028 elections at this time would be premature while critical security matters and official duties require his full attention.
Teodoro first launched a presidential campaign during the 2010 national elections, where he placed behind his cousin, the late former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. He subsequently ran for a Senate seat in 2022, placing 15th in the overall voting.