Former Mati City mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat has voiced her support for Vice President Sara Duterte, citing their shared Mindanao roots and what she described as the strong performance of programs implemented under Duterte leadership.
Rabat made the remarks amid early signs of political positioning ahead of the 2028 national elections, as alliances and endorsements begin to quietly emerge well before the official campaign season.
“I will go for VP Sara. I am from Mindanao and we are from the same region. We can see that the programs of the Dutertes have been good,” Rabat said.
Asked about her own political plans for 2028, Rabat said it was premature to discuss any possible bid, stressing that decisions will be made at the proper time.
“Running in 2028 is an open book. We will cross the bridge when we get there,” she said.
Despite keeping her personal plans open, Rabat underscored unity within her family, saying they remain politically aligned moving forward.
“All of the Rabats will remain united in 2028 and beyond,” she added.
A well-known political figure in Davao Oriental, Rabat is a member of the influential Nakpil-Rabat political clan in Mati City.
While the 2028 elections are still more than two years away, Rabat’s statements signal early political alignment and underscore the continuing influence of Mindanao-based leaders as discussions surrounding the country’s next leadership cycle gradually take shape.
