Trillanes Confirms Their Bet for President & It’s Risa Hontiveros
RISA HONTIVEROS – Political tensions are rising as Antonio Trillanes IV announces their support for Risa Hontiveros in the upcoming presidential race.
Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV has publicly confirmed that their group, Magdalo, has decided to support Risa Hontiveros for the presidency in the 2028 national elections. In an interview with News Watch Plus PH on Thursday, March 26, Trillanes revealed that the group had already decided on their preferred candidate.
“Kami po, ‘yong aming grupo, ‘yong Magdalo ay nakapagpasya na si Senator Risa ang susuportahan namin,” he said.
According to Trillanes, while they are open to participating in a broader selection process involving so-called “middle forces,” their current preference remains firmly with Hontiveros.
“Ngayon, kung ano man ‘yong prosesong gagawin no’ng middle forces ay willing naman kaming lumahok pero ang preference namin sa ngayon ay si Senator Risa Hontiveros,” he said.
He clarified, however, that the group has yet to determine who they would support as Hontiveros’ potential running mate.
“Wala pa kami punto na ‘yon but siya na po ang napagpasiyahan,” Trillanes said.
Trillanes added that the decision to back Hontiveros had already been made several weeks ago. Still, he emphasized their willingness to respect whatever outcome may arise from a unified opposition process, especially if Hontiveros herself agrees to it.
“‘Yon na po ang napagdesisyunan a few weeks back pero open pa rin naman ‘yong grupo ng mag-submit sa proseso na gagawin,” he said.
“Para kung ang mapili ay iba at pumayag naman si Senator Risa doon sa proseso na ‘yon ay we will submit to the process,” Trillanes concluded.
As of writing, Hontiveros has yet to release any official reaction regarding the endorsement. However, it can be recalled that on February 9, 2026, she previously stated that she remains “open” and “willing” to run for president if chosen by the United Opposition.
Hontiveros said she intends to present the strongest and most trustworthy candidate for the upcoming elections, adding that she is also prepared to support whoever will be part of a unified “slate” or team within the opposition.
Meanwhile, Sara Duterte earlier made her own presidential bid official on February 18, 2026, announcing her candidacy for the 2028 elections.
She vowed to dedicate her life, strength, and “future” to serving the country rather than kneeling and asking for forgiveness over her past role in helping elect President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. into office.
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