Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Friday that he plans to endorse a candidate for the country’s 2028 presidential election, but said he has not yet decided who will receive his backing.
Marcos is constitutionally limited to a single six year term, making the question of his preferred successor increasingly important as potential candidates begin positioning themselves for the 2028 race.
Speaking at an event with foreign journalists, Marcos said it was still too early to choose a candidate.
“You have to see how things really shape up,” he said, adding that he had not yet discussed a presidential run with potential candidates.
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He said his administration would eventually choose the “best possible candidate” to improve the lives of Filipinos.
Sara Duterte Emerges as Key Rival
Marcos’ decision is likely to be closely watched because of the growing political strength of Vice President Sara Duterte, his former ally and now fierce political rival.
Duterte announced in February that she would seek the presidency in 2028. Her early campaign has already gained momentum in opinion polls, creating a direct political challenge to the Marcos camp.
The two leaders entered the 2022 election as allies, bringing together two of the Philippines’ most powerful political families. Their alliance, however, quickly collapsed after taking office.
Marcos Duterte Alliance Falls Apart
The political dispute has since expanded into congressional investigations and legal proceedings.
Duterte faced scrutiny over her finances, while the government under Marcos later allowed her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, to be transferred to the International Criminal Court to face murder charges linked to his controversial war on drugs.
Sara Duterte is also facing an impeachment trial in the Senate that began on July 6.
She has been accused of financial irregularities, unexplained wealth and threatening Marcos’ life. Duterte has denied the allegations.
If convicted, she could face a lifetime ban from holding political office.
Marcos has sought to distance himself from the impeachment proceedings, saying the matter belongs to the legislative branch.
What Comes Next
Marcos’ decision not to name a preferred successor leaves the political field open, but his eventual endorsement could have significant influence over the 2028 race.
With Sara Duterte already positioning herself for the presidency, the contest is increasingly shaping up as another major confrontation between the Marcos and Duterte political dynasties.
For now, Marcos appears to be keeping his options open while waiting to see which candidates emerge and how the political landscape develops.
With information from Reuters.
