VICE President Duterte (Keith Bacongco)
DAVAO CITY – Various groups and individuals backed Vice President Sara Duterte’s declaration on Wednesday to run for president in the May 2028 elections.
The One Bangsamoro Movement (1Bangsa) said Duterte’s bold pronouncement carries deep meaning for the Bangsamoro people as her declaration comes during the holy month of Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a time of renewal, discipline, unity, and sincere intention. It is a season when leaders are called to act with moral clarity and spiritual accountability before God and the people,” they said.
For Mindanao and the entire nation, 1Bangsa added, her announcement signals not mere political ambition, but a commitment anchored in faith, strength, and responsibility.
“Today, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) stands at a crossroads, with leadership divisions, uncertainty, and continued interference from Imperial Manila threatening the spirit of genuine autonomy,” the group said.
Davao City third district Rep. Isidro Ungab, a close ally of the Dutertes, expressed full support to Vice President Duterte’s decision.
“She is, without question, the strongest and most capable leader to guide our nation at this critical time. With her proven track record in governance, firm leadership, and deep concern for the Filipino people, I am confident that she can bring about genuine progress and deliver meaningful, results-oriented governance that uplifts every sector of our society,” Ungab said in his Facebook page.
Retired Police Major Gen. Alexander Tagum said Vice President Duterte is a visionary leader and decisive leader.
“As the former City Director of the Davao City Police Office, I personally witnessed her leadership marked by iron will, sharp intellect, innovation, discipline, and genuine compassion for her constituents,” said Tagum who served from 2017 to 2019.
Seventy five-year old Boilonor Ugay, a seasoned freelance photographer, also believes Duterte could win in 2028 if the people will not allow vote buying. “I will support her because she is pro-people and she has principles.”
The Duterte-aligned Hakbang ng Maisug also supports her for president.
“In more ways than one, today’s declaration is the light at the end of the tunnel. Throughout her career in public service, Vice President Duterte has been transparent and accountable, two of Maisug’s core advocacies,” the group said in a statement.