Vice President Sara Duterte‑Carpio has formally announced her candidacy for President of the Philippines in the 2028 national elections, setting the stage for what is expected to be one of the most consequential political contests in recent Philippine history.

In a brief press conference on February 18, 2026, Duterte — daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte and the country’s current Vice President — declared her intention to run for the country’s highest office. In Filipino, she directly stated:

“Ako si Sara Duterte, tatakbo bilang Pangulo ng Pilipinas.”

Her announcement marks the first official presidential candidacy in the 2028 race, signaling her entry ahead of the formal filing season which opens closer to the election year.

Why Duterte Is Running

In her statement, Sara Duterte apologized to the Filipino people for previously backing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in the 2022 national elections, asserting that the current administration has failed to deliver on key promises related to governance, inflation, healthcare and public services.

She also framed her candidacy as a service to the nation — offering her “life, strength, and future” to address national challenges and revive the country’s direction.

Political Context & Dynamics

Duterte’s decision comes amid deep political tensions with the Marcos administration. Once running mates in the UniTeam Alliance that swept the 2022 elections, the two leaders have since fallen into open dispute — marked by criticisms exchanged publicly and strategic disagreements within government.

Her declaration also arrives amid fresh impeachment complaints filed against her in the House of Representatives for alleged misuse of confidential funds and other charges — although she has denied wrongdoing. If convicted in an impeachment trial, she could potentially be barred from public office, complicating her political path.

Looking Ahead to 2028

Political analysts believe Duterte’s early announcement is a strategic move designed to consolidate support, define her platform early, and navigate the complex landscape of rival coalitions and potential challengers. Some commentators suggest that her lead in early surveys and national popularity could force rival political blocs to form broader coalitions to oppose her in 2028.

As the first major candidate to officially declare, Sara Duterte’s candidacy reshapes the early contours of the 2028 election, positioning her as a central figure in the nation’s political conversation leading up to the vote.