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Politics · Philippines Bureau

Senator Padilla Rules Out 2028 Bid, Eyes Move to Islamic Nation

Sen. Robin Padilla has declared his decision to forgo candidacy in the 2028 national elections as final, stating that politics is not his calling. The senator indicated plans to relocate his family to an Islamic country.

LSN Philippines · 19 September 2026

MANILA — Sen. Robin Padilla on Saturday firmly closed the door on any possibility of seeking public office in the 2028 national elections, describing the decision as definitive and irreversible.

"That is final," Padilla said, emphasizing the conclusiveness of his stance on stepping back from electoral politics. The senator has previously signaled his disinterest in political pursuits, and Saturday's statement underscores his commitment to that position.

Beyond his electoral withdrawal, Padilla disclosed intentions to relocate his family to an Islamic country, marking a significant personal and lifestyle shift. The move aligns with the senator's long-standing Islamic faith and suggests a broader pivot away from his political career in the Philippines.

Padilla's announcement comes amid ongoing discussions within political circles regarding candidate lineups for the 2028 presidential and legislative races. His decision removes speculation about potential candidacies and signals his focus on personal and family matters moving forward.

The senator's withdrawal from electoral consideration represents a notable development in Philippine politics, with Padilla joining a growing number of officials reassessing their involvement in public service.