Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV gave Vice President Leni Robredo a not-so-subtle nudge on Tuesday, Sept. 21, to finally decide on whether or not to run for president in the May 2022 national elections.
At the same time, Trillanes tried to dissuade Robredo--albeit indirectly--on the notion that forging a so-called "unity slate" would guarantee victory against the administration in the upcoming polls.
"Some pseudo political analysts and columnists are pushing this baseless narrative that the only way to beat the Dutertes is by having a one-on-one fight," the former Navy lieutenant wrote on his Facebook.
"Who gave them the idea that the voters of Isko , Pacquiao and Lacson would automatically go to VP Leni? I say, let them all run," Trillanes stated.
He then finsihed his post with a line that was clearly meant for Robredo: "We'll just focus on how to win the hearts and minds of the voters. That's what the campaign period is for. Pero bago yan, kailangan pala muna magdecide (But before that, there needs to be a decision first)."
Robredo, considered the opposition leader by her affiliation to the once-ruling Liberal Party (LP), remains undecided as to her poltical plans next year.
Based on her statements the past few weeks, her ultimate decision appears to hinge on whether or not she can come up with a united ticket with her fellow critics of the Duterte administration.
A united ticket entails only one presidential candidate. The problem is, Lacson and Pacquiao have already declared their presidential bid, with Moreno expected to follow suit.
But Robredo--who has fared poorly in popularity polls--may yet receive a boost if she gets endorsed by opposition coalition 1Sambayan..
Trillanes had earlier said that he would vie for the Palace seat himself if Robredo doesn't. The firebrand ex-senator had previously been critical of the lady official's "explanatory talks" with the other opposition figures ahead of the May polls.
The filing of the certificates of candidacy (COCs) for those vying for public posts next year will begin in October. Robredo has said that she would wait until the very last day of filing, on Oct. 8, to decide on her move, if needed.
1Sambayan earlier nominated Robredo and Trillanes as possible presidential bet for the opposition.