The race for the presidency is heating up, with segments of the opposition pushing Senator Risa Hontiveros to become their standard-bearer.
The “Risa Na!” movement was launched by her party, Akbayan, and Magdalo, with support from volunteers and civil society groups urging Hontiveros to run for president in 2028.
During the event at Ang Bahay ng Alumni in Quezon City, key guests and speakers emphasized Hontiveros’ work and accomplishments during her time as a lawmaker, particularly her advocacy for good governance—a quality they said is critical in a presidential candidate.
Elected in 2016 and now serving her final term, Hontiveros has championed measures benefiting women and children, including the Expanded Maternity Leave Law, the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, the Safe Spaces Act, and other health-related legislation.
She also led Senate investigations into former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo over questions surrounding her citizenship and alleged ties to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Guo was later found guilty of human trafficking by the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 167 and sentenced to life imprisonment (reclusion perpetua).
With lessons learned from the 2022 elections, when then-Vice President Leni Robredo lost to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., opposition groups are eager to choose their standard-bearer early and lay the groundwork for the 2028 elections.
If Hontiveros decides to run and secures the opposition’s backing, she could face an uphill battle against Vice President Sara Duterte, who announced her presidential bid in early February and is widely considered the frontrunner.
The latest Pulse Asia survey showed Duterte leading a six-way presidential race for 2028. Hontiveros garnered 2% support and placed fifth behind Duterte, former Vice President and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, Senator Raffy Tulfo, and Senator Bam Aquino. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla ranked last.
Pulse Asia also conducted a head-to-head survey between Duterte and Robredo, showing Duterte with 51% support and Robredo with 43%, giving the vice president an eight-point lead.
Former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV revealed that Magdalo conducted its own surveys in January and April comparing Duterte and Hontiveros. The results showed Hontiveros gaining 3.1 percentage points, although Duterte still maintained a lead of around 20 points. Trillanes said he believes support that would otherwise go to Robredo could shift to Hontiveros, making her a competitive candidate in 2028.
Hontiveros said she is considering a presidential run but emphasized that she is also prepared to support whichever candidate the opposition bloc ultimately agrees to field.
