MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveros said she is preparing and seriously considering a possible run for president in the 2028 elections, as former Vice President Leni Robredo has already ruled out seeking the country’s highest post.

“Naghahanda ako at dahil sinabi ko na dati, paulit ulit, na tuwing tinatanong kung bukas ako [tumakbo for presidency], willing ako, seriously considering it (I am preparing, and as I have said before, repeatedly—whenever I am asked if I am open [to running for the presidency]—I am willing and seriously considering it),” Hontiveros said Saturday, April 25.

In a report, the senator said she remains open to becoming the Liberal Party’s (LP) standard-bearer for 2028, noting that the party has yet to name its presidential candidate and following Robredo’s decision to stay in local politics as Naga City mayor.

Hontiveros said she respects Robredo’s position and would still do so even if the former vice president changes her mind.

With no declared candidate yet from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s coalition, Vice President Sara Duterte—who has already announced her presidential bid—continues to lead recent surveys.

Robredo, who has not indicated any plans to reconsider her decision, is currently placing second in some surveys and reportedly narrowing the gap with Duterte.

“I’ve said from the start, hindi lang kung ano ‘yung decision or yung pag-change ng decision ng sinuman samin (I’ve said from the start, it’s not just about what the decision is or the change of heart of anyone among us),” Hontiveros said.

“Basta ang akin, kung sino ang pinakamalakas mula sa aming hanay, ‘yun ang argument ko from the start, ‘yun ang suportahan namin para iisa lamang (For my part, whoever is the strongest from our ranks—that has been my argument from the start—that is who we should support so that we remain united as one),” she added.