NAGA CITY, Camarines Sur — Amid persistent public encouragement from her allies and partymates, incumbent Naga City mayor Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo has pushed aside the pleas for the moment as she emphasized that she is more focused on local service to her constituents.
However, Liberal PARTY (LP) chairperson and former senator Leila Norma Eulalia Josefa De Lima believes the former vice president could well consider a return to national politics if her survey ratings continue to improve.
Speaking in the vernacular, De Lima gave reference to Robredo’s possible comeback in 2028: “Tatakbo siya kung lalong tumaas ang numero niya.”
Both De Lima and Robredo are members of the Liberal Party, which has remained part of the opposition bloc since the end of the 2022 national elections.
De Lima’s pronouncement came amid renewed public discussions on the Naga City mayor’s potential electoral plans following the recent survey results that showed a notable rise in her voter preference ratings in hypothetical 2028 presidential race.
In the latest OCTA Research poll survey, Robredo climbed in rankings among early presidential contenders and narrowing the gap with beleaguered Vice President ‘Inday’ Sara Duterte-Carpio, who face an impeachment trial but continues to lead the nationwide preferences.
Still, despite the positive developments in her rating, the Robredo widow has not declared any intention to seek national office. Since leaving government, she has focused on local governance and has been involved in various civic and community programs in Bicol.