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Politics · Philippines Bureau

Hontiveros Signals 2028 Presidential Ambitions, Calls for Opposition Unity

Senator Risa Hontiveros says she is actively preparing for a potential presidential bid in 2028, while urging the opposition to consolidate behind a single candidate with the best electoral viability.

LSN Philippines · 22 August 2026

ILOILO CITY — Senator Risa Hontiveros indicated Friday that she is gearing up for a possible presidential run in 2028, though she emphasized the importance of opposition parties rallying behind one unified candidate capable of winning the election.

Speaking at a press conference here, Hontiveros said she was strengthening her political organization and expanding her support base in preparation for a potential national campaign. The remarks come as various opposition figures begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2028 presidential elections.

Hontiveros acknowledged the strategic challenges facing the opposition, noting that a fragmented field could undermine chances of defeating the administration's preferred candidate. While confirming her personal preparations for a presidential bid, she stressed that the ultimate priority should be identifying and supporting the opposition's most viable standard-bearer.

The senator's statements reflect growing calculations within the opposition coalition about how to maximize electoral prospects in the next presidential contest. Her comments suggest ongoing internal discussions about candidate selection and party unity strategies among anti-administration forces in the Philippines.