MANILA—Speculation about a possible 2028 electoral alliance between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Leni Robredo has been dismissed by Liberal Party leaders, following Marcos’ recent visit to Naga Citytra Baha program.

Rep. Edgar Erice, a fellow Liberal Party member, described the alliance rumors as “far-fetched,” joking that even the party’s late leaders would likely “rise from their graves” if such a coalition were to occur.

“Palagay ko po ‘yan po ay napakalayo,” Erice said in a radio interview on 105.9 True FM Monday. “Sa palagay ko po, pati ‘yung namatay naming mga leader, baka bumangon sa kanilang mga kinalalagyan kung kami ay makikipagkoalisyon sa administration.”

Erice clarified that the party has not formally discussed plans on who to field for the opposition in the 2028 elections. Speculation about potential tandems surged on social media following Vice President Sara Duterte’s announcement of her presidential bid.

Robredo, who lost to Marcos in the 2022 presidential race, has repeatedly stated she will not run again, focusing instead on her duties as Naga City mayor. Other opposition figures reportedly considering the presidency in 2028 include Senators Risa Hontiveros and Bam Aquino, though Aquino has said he will not run for vice president. Liberal Party stalwart Florencio “Butch” Abad noted that both senators remain open to seeking the presidency.

Erice added that former president Benigno Aquino III’s approach to alliances would likely have prevented any partnership with the Marcos administration.

“At hindi po, sa tingin ko, papayag si PNoy na maging kabahagi nitong administrasyon na may ginawang ganito kalaking kalokohan,” he said.