HOUSE Committee on Human Rights Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. of Manila on Thursday said Vice President Sara Duterte’s early declaration of a 2028 presidential run could end up exposing her to sharper public scrutiny as the fourth impeachment complaint moves forward.
Abante, endorser of the 4th impeachment complaint against Duterte, said he did not want to “pre-empt what the intention of the vice president would be,” but noted the timing of the announcement.
“Napakaaga ng kanyang announcement,” he said, pointing out that there are still “two years” before the 2028 elections.
For Abante, Duterte’s pronouncement does not shut down the controversy — it may widen it.
“Her announcement would open the Pandora’s box for everything. That will expose her publicly,” he said.
He added that the development places the burden on the Vice President to address questions raised against her, as the public weighs what kind of leadership and direction she offers.
“And now it is up to her to be able to explain to the Filipino people,” Abante said.
