MANILA — Could the country soon be calling her “President Risa Hontiveros”?
This question has sparked growing interest among netizens after Senator Risa Hontiveros confirmed that she is not ruling out a presidential run in the 2028 national elections. Now on her third and final term in the Senate, Hontiveros said she remains open to all political possibilities after her tenure ends.
“I’m not saying no. I’m open to all possibilities,” the senator said in a recent interview.
Hontiveros also expressed readiness to be the standard bearer of a potential “third force coalition” — a political bloc that does not align with either President Bongbong Marcos or Vice President Sara Duterte.
She emphasized the need for a truly independent movement that reflects the aspirations of the Filipino people for change.
The senator confirmed her openness to re-engaging in dialogue with the Makabayang Koalisyon ng Mamamayan or the Makabayan bloc, in hopes of building a stronger and united opposition in 2028.
It can be recalled that ties between Akbayan Citizens’ Action Party — Hontiveros’ party — and the Makabayan bloc were strained during the administration of former President Noynoy Aquino, whom Akbayan supported, while Makabayan remained in opposition. The rift deepened during the 2013 elections when Anakbayan, a Makabayan-aligned group, labeled Akbayan a “fake party-list.”
Despite this political history, Hontiveros appears keen on reconciliation and coalition-building.
Meanwhile, the senator also expressed gratitude for the electoral success of her allies in the 2025 midterm elections, including incoming Senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, as well as incoming Akbayan Party-list Representative Chel Diokno and ML Party-list Representative Leila de Lima.
As early as now, political observers note that Hontiveros could emerge as one of the most viable candidates in the 2028 presidential race, especially if a united and revitalized opposition solidifies around her candidacy.