Debuque shuts down 2028 Iloilo gubernatorial buzz

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Iloilo Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque firmly dismissed speculation that she is preparing to run for governor in the 2028 elections, saying her current efforts are focused on fulfilling her mandate as vice governor.

Rumors about Debuque allegedly gearing up for a gubernatorial bid have recently circulated online, particularly as she has been actively visiting communities across the province.

“Categorically, no [—there is no truth to that rumor]. If I have been going around the province lately and working hard, it is not because I have plans or ambitions for 2028,” she said in an interview on March 10.

She clarified that her engagements across the province are part of her commitment to repay the trust given to her by Ilonggo voters during the 2025 midterm elections.

“I just want to concentrate on my work, especially as we are facing many pressing matters. I will not be distracted by political gossip,” she added.

Debuque is serving her first term at the provincial level after previously completing three terms as mayor of Anilao, Iloilo.

She won the vice gubernatorial race in the 2025 elections, defeating former Vice Gov. Raul “Boboy” Tupas in a closely watched contest with 547,462 votes, or 51.95 percent.

The 2025 Iloilo vice gubernatorial race drew significant attention as it pitted Debuque, a local executive from a smaller municipality, against Tupas, a veteran provincial politician from a prominent Ilonggo political family.