MANILA— The administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is prioritizing immediate national concerns over preparations for the 2028 elections, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said.

Castro made the statement after being asked about reports that the administration was considering a political tandem for the 2028 presidential race.

She said she had not been given details about any proposed tandem, adding that Marcos was currently focused on addressing issues facing the country, including the anticipated Super El Niño phenomenon and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

“Marami pang dapat tugunan, pati itong mga isyu tungkol sa krisis sa Middle East. So, sa ngayon ay hindi politika o pamumulitika ang iniisip ng administrasyon,” Castro said.

Meanwhile, Castro also addressed petitions filed before the Supreme Court challenging the postponement of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

The petitions seek the issuance of a Status Quo Ante Order, temporary restraining order, and writ of preliminary injunction against the postponement of the elections.

Castro said the Office of the President has yet to receive a copy of the petitions.

She added that the administration would respond to any orders issued by the Supreme Court, with the state to be represented by the Office of the Solicitor General.