Vice President Sara Duterte has formally announced her candidacy for the presidency in the 2028 national elections, centering her campaign on poverty reduction, food security, and healthcare reform.
In her speech, Duterte highlighted what she described as urgent gaps in basic services.
“Patawad kung wala man lang tayong tunay na siguridad sa pagkain. Patawad, may nagkakasakit at pinabawian bigla ng buhay dahil sa kakulangan ng maayos at efektibong healthcare system,” she said.
She also addressed political attacks against her, stressing that her concern lies in the country’s future.
“Hindi ako kailanman natakot sa pagsira nila sa pangalan ko. Ngunit may takot ako susunod na henerasyon… May takot ako para sa patuloy na nalulugmok sa kahirapan,” Duterte added.
Confirming her candidacy, she framed the decision as a personal pledge of service:
“I offer my life, my strength, and my future in the service of our nation. Ako si Sara Duterte, tatakbo bilang Pangulo ng Pilipinas.”
Her declaration is expected to shape early political alignments ahead of the 2028 elections, with major blocs and allies likely to reposition in the coming months. Current pre-election surveys show Duterte leading the presidential race.