MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Francis Pangilinan expressed concern that Leni Robredo’s refusal to run for president in 2028 could create a “leadership vacuum” that may be difficult for other contenders to fill.
In a recent radio interview, Robredo said she intends to seek a second term as mayor of Naga City, adding that she is certain she “will no longer run for any national position.”
Pangilinan said it would be best if Robredo reconsiders and “heeds the growing clamor of the people for her to lead the nation’s fight for genuine service and good governance.”
“Now more than ever, having witnessed the largest corruption scandal in Philippine history, our people are crying out for good governance and public accountability,” Pangilinan said.
“Now more than ever, all those who believe in meaningful change, honesty, and integrity in our public institutions must come together and sacrifice our time and effort for the sake of a better future for our children,” he added.
Meanwhile, former senator Antonio Trillanes IV said on Wednesday that the Magdalo group, where he belongs, would endorse Sen. Risa Hontiveros if she decides to run for higher office in 2028.
Trillanes said it would be preferable for Robredo to endorse either Hontiveros or Sen. Bam Aquino should she opt not to seek the presidency, so that her support base could be transferred to them.
Hontiveros and Aquino have yet to respond to media queries regarding Trillanes’ statement.
Earlier, Pangilinan warned that Robredo’s refusal to join the 2028 presidential race “could lead to disunity among our ranks and the splintering not just of our forces but of all potential allies outside our ranks.”
“The net effect will be the fielding of various political parties and groups with their respective presidential bets, further weakening our chances and delivering victory to our adversaries,” Pangilinan wrote on Facebook.
