VP Sara-Robin tandem leads hypothetical 2028 presidential race: OCTA poll

A new survey by OCTA Research shows that the hypothetical tandem of Vice President Sara Duterte and Senator Robin Padilla is leading in a potential matchup against former presidential candidate Leni Robredo and Senator Bam Aquino for the 2028 national elections. The poll, conducted from July 4 to 11 with 1,200 respondents, found that 48 percent of Filipinos would vote for the Duterte-Padilla pairing. In contrast, 36 percent expressed support for the Robredo-Aquino tandem, while 16 percent remained undecided. While the Duterte-Padilla duo holds a 12-point lead, OCTA noted this represents the "narrowest gap recorded between the two tandems to date." Previous surveys in 2025 had shown a gap of approximately 20 to 25 points, indicating a narrowing trend. Currently, only Vice President Duterte has publicly declared her intention to run for a national post in 2028. Senator Padilla, who was a frontrunner in the 2022 Senate race, has previously stated he is not inclined to run as Duterte's vice presidential running mate. Robredo has indicated a preference to run for a second term as Naga City mayor, and Senator Aquino has ruled out a bid for vice president in 2028. The OCTA poll has a margin of error of plus or minus three percent. In the context of Philippine politics, the movements of potential candidates for the next elections are always a subject of keen interest. The trajectory of Vice President Duterte, as a prominent figure, is closely watched for the potential expansion of her support base. Meanwhile, Robredo, who garnered significant support in the previous election, continues to draw considerable public attention. The emergence of newer political figures like Senator Padilla could signal a diversification within Philippine politics.