Respect the ex-VP’s decision

By Alex P. Vidal

“You have reached the pinnacle of success as soon as you become uninterested in money, compliments, or publicity.” — Thomas Wolfe

SINCE the presidency of any nation, they say, is “a gift from God,” we suggest leaving Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo alone now that she has expressed no appetite to participate in the national election other than running for reelection to her current position.

If she believes the highest elective position in the country isn’t her gift from God, there’s nothing those who admire her can do now unless she changes her mind at the eleventh hour.

There’s a proverb that says, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” This means we can provide the likes of Mayor Robredo with an opportunity or resource, but we can’t force them to take advantage of it.

Even perspectives on the issue that “the presidency is a gift from God” vary widely, since whether only those with “a gift from God” can become president is a matter of intense theological and political debate, not a legal requirement.

While it is not a legal requirement, Dr. Miranda Zapor Cruz once said it is practically difficult for an outspoken atheist to win the presidency due to the religious demographics of the voting population.

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There have been calls for Mayor Robredo to reconsider her decision after she recently announced she wasn’t interested in running for Philippine president in 2028.

“I am sure for myself that I won’t (take part) in the national (elections),” the former vice president declared two weeks ago, stating she intended to focus on local governance in Naga City.

Her supporters and the Liberal Party continued to woo her even after she had already expressed her desire to seek a second term as mayor of Naga City, aiming to complete projects within her “2028 Finish Lines” roadmap.

Robredo, who lost to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in the 2022 presidential race, indicated she prefers a “new face” to step forward and that running for a national position is not aligned with her current desire for local community work.

Many Filipinos believe only Robredo can prevent the return of another Duterte in Malacañang now that Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio has been leading in surveys for president despite facing an impeachment case that threatens to oust her from office and the presidential race.

Robredo’s numbers in the surveys have consistently shown some positive signs even if she hasn’t declared her intention to run.

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Below is a petition from Robredo’s supporters being circulated online and in many communities in the hope of convincing her to run for president in 2028:

The Kakampink movement fought hard for Vice President Leni Robredo. Against all odds, it stood firm and still managed to win nearly half of the national vote in the 2022 elections, despite the massive gap in machinery, resources, and funding. We were heartbroken by the loss, but many of us believe it happened for a reason. The people were able to witness firsthand the consequences of their choice. Through all of this, one truth remains unmistakably clear: Leni Robredo was the right choice, the perfect choice — TOTGA, “The One That Got Away” — that this country still needs.

Since her term as vice president of the Philippines, Leni Robredo has shown relentless dedication, integrity, and compassion. Known for her unyielding devotion to grassroots movements and inclusive politics, she has always represented hope for a nation yearning for genuine change. Her leadership is not only a beacon for the Filipino people but also a bastion of democracy and equity.

Our nation faces many challenges: economic instability, social inequality, and eroded trust in leadership. Now more than ever, we need a leader who embodies transparency, empathy, and fortitude. Robredo’s track record in public service and her profound connection with the people’s struggles make her the leader we need to steer us toward a brighter future.

By urging Leni Robredo to consider a presidential run in 2028, we are taking a step toward rebuilding our nation. Her vision for a transparent, accountable, and compassionate government offers the promise of progress and healing that our beloved country needs.

Join us in calling on Leni Robredo to accept the challenge and run for the presidency in 2028. By doing so, we can stop the collapse we are witnessing and work together toward revitalizing our nation. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and encourage Robredo to take on the mantle of leadership once more.

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NO MAN IS AN ISLAND. The reason a seesaw was made for two persons is that when you go down, there will always be someone there to lift you up again!

Happiness doesn’t come in brightly colored packages as gifts from others. It comes when we uncover the gifts within us and use them to serve others.

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor-in-chief of two leading daily newspapers in Iloilo, Philippines. — Ed.)