Senator Risa Hontiveros is confident that the opposition would be able to field a presidential candidate who can be considered the “best alternative” in the upcoming May 2028 elections. 

Hontiveros pointed this out a day after a Pulse Asia presidential survey showing her as one of the potential presidential candidate in the May 2028 elections circulated. 

But the same survey, done from February 27 to March 2, also showed Sen. Raffy Tulfo in a tie with Vice President Sara Duterte, at 46 percent points.

She said she believes that the true united opposition would be ready to announce their standard bearer soon, or at the “end of this year.”

“And my dream and my intention is to make sure all of us are united in supporting that person,” Hontiveros said in an interview in Filipino.

“We have already discussed this would be our working principle, to be united behind the strongest candidate who will emerge from our ranks. And I am confident that we will have a fighting chance to present the best alternative,” she said. 

Hontiveros said she is no longer surprised at the outcome of the latest Pulse Asia survey noting she also ran for senator in the past even when she was at a disadvantaged.

Nevertheless, she said it’s still too early to predict the outcome of the 2028 presidential elections.

“2028 is still far off. The most important issue right now for Filipinos is the rising cost of basic goods and commodities, the expensive electricity,” she pointed out.

“So many things can still happen, but I respect the survey. It’s a helpful guide on how we should act. But we are after achieving satisfaction on the final results,” she said.

While Naga Mayor Leni Robredo has announced she prefers to seek a second term as city mayor, Hontiveros said she believes there are many of them in the opposition are qualified to run for president.

“I believe that many of us here can serve as President. I am confident we can give back the trust and confidence she has for us,” she said.