The case for a Risa Hontiveros presidency

By Ted Aldwin Ong

Familiar faces from past struggles, alongside a new generation of activists and advocates, gathered in an informal reunion during the first Panay-wide, multisectoral assembly of the Risa Na! Movement at the La Paz Plaza Covered Gym.

The event served as a venue for uniting individuals and groups from various political backgrounds who are seriously considering Sen. Risa Hontiveros’ possible presidential bid in 2028.

As participants shook hands and exchanged pleasantries, a familiar sentiment resurfaced in conversation: Here we are again. Are we really going to spend our time debating whether Hontiveros is the right candidate? Her winnability? Her survey numbers? The resources required? The strategies and tactics? The questions sounded all too familiar — and were met with knowing laughter.

Some things, it seems, remain constant in our political conversations, particularly those rooted in experiments dating back to the late 1990s, when segments of the social movement sought to build a “third force” capable of challenging the country’s dominant political blocs.

Those efforts unfolded during a turbulent period in Philippine politics, culminating in the EDSA People Power II uprising that led to the ouster of Joseph “Erap” Estrada and the ascent of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the presidency. While the political landscape has changed considerably since then, the questions that animated those earlier initiatives remain vivid in memory: How can democratic and progressive forces unite? Can an alternative political project break through the dominance of traditional parties and political dynasties? And what strategy can translate social movements into meaningful electoral success?

The idea of fielding an alternative candidate like Hontiveros is not new. Various groups and political formations have repeatedly sought to carve out a democratic alternative to mainstream politics. Some of these earlier engagements even achieved partial success, particularly in securing spaces such as party-list representation in Congress.

Hontiveros rose from the party-list system, yet I emphasize the word “partial” because the party-list system, originally designed to give marginalized sectors representation in Congress, has also been captured by traditional politicians and political dynasties. A common refrain is, “na baboy na ang partylist system.”

For generations, our political landscape has been dominated by the same forces: the ruling class, entrenched political dynasties, the oligarchy, and a system that too often leaves ordinary Filipinos on the margins of decision-making. Many have been taught to believe that this is simply how politics works and that meaningful change is impossible.

But history tells us otherwise. There are moments when citizens are given the opportunity to challenge what is familiar and choose what is morally right. I believe this is one of those defining moments — a possible Risa Hontiveros presidency.

One of Hontiveros’ most defining qualities is her willingness to stand by her convictions, even when doing so is politically inconvenient. In an environment where many politicians carefully calculate every move according to public opinion surveys, alliances, or electoral considerations, Hontiveros has often demonstrated a different approach. Whether one agrees with her positions or not, she has built a reputation for consistency and independence, choosing to defend principles she believes are right rather than simply following the prevailing political winds.

This characteristic matters because leadership is ultimately tested not during moments of popularity but during moments of difficulty. The presidency demands the courage to make decisions that may not always be politically advantageous but are necessary for the long-term welfare of the nation. Supporters of Hontiveros argue that her track record suggests she would be guided less by political convenience and more by what she believes serves the national interest. At a time when public trust in institutions remains fragile, a leader perceived as principled and independent could help restore confidence in government and strengthen democratic governance.

Beyond questions of character and leadership style, a potential Hontiveros presidency also offers a distinct vision for economic development. For decades, economic growth has been measured primarily through statistics — higher GDP figures, increased investments, and expanding markets. Yet for many Filipinos, especially those struggling with poverty, insecure employment, and rising living costs, economic growth often feels disconnected from their daily realities.

Hontiveros represents a perspective that asks a different question: Who benefits from growth? Her progressive approach emphasizes workers’ rights, social protection, accessible health care, quality education, and fair opportunities for all sectors of society. The goal is not merely to grow the economy but to ensure that growth translates into better lives for ordinary citizens.

Advocates of inclusive development argue that economies become stronger and more sustainable when prosperity is shared more broadly. When workers earn decent wages, when families have access to health care and education, and when vulnerable communities are given opportunities to participate in economic life, growth becomes more resilient and equitable. Under this framework, reducing inequality is not simply a social objective; it is also an economic strategy that expands opportunity and strengthens national development.

As the Philippines looks ahead to the 2028 elections, the real question is not whether the country can afford a leader like Hontiveros, but whether it can afford another six years of politics as usual.