Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla has expressed his openness to run for vice president in the 2028 national elections as the running mate of Vice President Sara Duterte, if asked by former President Rodrigo Duterte.
In an interview with reporters, Padilla said he would “only“ agree to seek the vice presidency upon the request of former President.
“Kapag utos ni Digong. Walang pwedeng mag-utos sa akin kahit sino, si Digong lang. Kasi ayaw ko talaga ng pulitika. Alam naman lahat ng… nanay ko alam yan, mga kapatid ko, asawa ko. Basta sinabi ni Digong, susunod ako,” Padilla said.
Padilla characterized the vice presidency as a support role, likening it to a “spare tire” with limited executive responsibilities, describing the position as largely focused on advocacy.
“Ipinanganak po tayong ready. Lalo na ‘yan, para sa akin… Vice President, hindi naman masyadong ano ‘yan… puro advocacy lang ‘yan eh. Parang ikaw ang spare tire, ‘di ba? Kayang-kaya ‘yan,” he said.
Despite his openness to the possibility, Padilla clarified that running for vice president is not currently his priority. He noted that there are more senior figures within their political circle who may be considered as potential running mates for Duterte.
Among those he mentioned were, Senators Imee Marcos, Bong Go, Bato dela Rosa and Alan Peter Cayetano.
Padilla explained that there is a hierarchy within their ranks and that several options remain available should Duterte decide to run in 2028.
The senator also said he is open to serving as campaign manager if he is not chosen as Duterte’s running mate.
“Kahit saan siya magpunta, nandoon ako. Nandoon kami. Hindi ko siya iniiwan. Ngayon pa na lalaban siya? Ngayon pa na lahat ng kahilingan at dasal ay magiging katotohanan na, dahil ‘yun naman ang gusto namin, kumandidato siya,” he said.
Padilla added that he is prepared to face criticism should he decide to seek higher office.
He said he is ready to endure any criticism or negative labels such as “bobo, babaero, ex-convict“ that may be thrown at him, stressing that he is not overly sensitive and can handle personal attacks about his past.
