Philippine president says he has yet to decide who to back as successor

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has stated that he has not yet decided who he will endorse as a successor for the 2028 presidential election. The constitution of the Philippines limits presidents to a single, six-year term in office, making it customary for a president to endorse a candidate for the next election. However, Marcos Jr. believes that it is premature to make such a decision at this time, as he needs to observe how the political landscape evolves.

In an interview with foreign journalists, Marcos Jr. confirmed that he would endorse a candidate but emphasized that the choice would be made after carefully assessing the situation. He stated, "You have to see how things really shape up. I haven't sat down with anyone and said, do you want to run for president or not?" He added, "The time will come. We will certainly provide the best candidate for the betterment of the lives of the people. We will choose the best possible candidate."

Marcos Jr.'s rival for the presidency, Sara Duterte, the estranged vice president of Marcos, announced in February that she would run for the 2028 election. This announcement came amid a significant rift between the two prominent political families, who previously campaigned together in the 2022 election. Their alliance quickly unraveled, leading to investigations into Sara Duterte's financial dealings.

She is currently facing impeachment proceedings in the Senate, accused of financial irregularities, amassing unusual wealth, and threatening the life of Marcos Jr. If found guilty, she would be barred from holding any political office for life. Marcos Jr. has distanced himself from the impeachment proceedings, asserting that it is a matter for the legislative branch.