Replacement candidates ready if Duterte impeached, says Panelo

PAGADIAN CITY — Former presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Monday that political alternatives exist to carry Vice President Sara Duterte's banner in the 2028 presidential race, even if she is convicted by the impeachment court and barred from public office.

Panelo told reporters in Pagadian that viable substitute candidates could emerge from within the Vice President's political network should such circumstances arise. His comments come as Duterte faces an impeachment complaint in the House of Representatives.

The former spokesperson did not specifically name alternative candidates but suggested that the political machinery supporting the Vice President's faction remains resilient and capable of fielding competitive presidential hopefuls in the next election cycle.

Duterte has maintained her innocence regarding charges leveled against her and has vowed to defend herself vigorously in proceedings before the Senate impeachment court. Political analysts have noted that impeachment convictions requiring two-thirds Senate votes remain difficult to achieve in the Philippine legislative process.

The 2028 presidential race is shaping up to be highly contested, with multiple political factions preparing their respective candidates for the national election.