NAGA, Camarines Sur — Former Vice President Leni Robredo has confirmed she has no plans to run for president in 2028, as she officially filed her candidacy for mayor of Naga City for the 2025 elections.
Robredo, alongside her Team Naga slate, filed their certificates of candidacy on Saturday, October 5. She will be running under the Liberal Party banner.
Speaking about her decision, Robredo revealed that she made up her mind last June to pursue a local post, despite calls for her to run for the Senate.
“Nasubukan ko na mag-legislative, nasubukan ko na mag-executive. Una, mas mahusay ako sa executive position, pangalawa, talagang passion ko yung community work, at eto ang buod ng pagiging mayor,” Robredo stated.
(I’ve already experienced legislative work and executive positions. First, I’m more suited for executive roles, and second, I’m truly passionate about community work, which is the essence of being a mayor.)
“Sa Senado, iba ang skillset na kailangan. Sigurado ako kasi naging Congresswoman na rin ako, mas passionate ako sa executive work sa local government,” she added.
(The Senate requires a different skill set. I’m certain, having been a Congresswoman, that I’m more passionate about executive work in local government.)
Robredo’s running mate is long-time ally Gabriel Bordado, while their slate of councilors was selected based on a thorough vetting process focused on character and integrity.
She also shared her vision for Naga, emphasizing inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and reiterated that she has no intention of using the mayoral post as a stepping stone for a presidential run in 2028.
“Tingin ko magiging unfair para sa city if gagamitin ko lang pagiging mayor bilang jumpoff point. Hindi ako magiging effective mayor kung ang iniisip ko lang ay yung 2028,” Robredo explained.
(It would be unfair to the city if I use the mayoral position as a stepping stone. I won’t be an effective mayor if I’m only thinking about the 2028 elections.)
Meanwhile, in the race for the gubernatorial post in Camarines Sur, Congressman LRay Villafuerte, who is completing his third term, is aiming for a return as governor, a position he previously held from 2004-2013. Opposing him is Bong Rodriguez, a former campaign manager for Robredo in Bicol.
In Albay, a three-way race is expected for the governor’s seat. Rep. Joey Salceda, who served as governor from 2007 to 2016, is running, alongside Edcel Grex Lagman, currently the Vice Governor of Albay, and Legazpi Mayor Noel Rosal, who was disqualified in 2022 for election spending violations.
In Sorsogon, incumbent Governor Edwin Hamor is seeking re-election, while Matnog Mayor Cattleya So will challenge him in the gubernatorial race.