By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Former Mati City mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat has expressed her support for Vice President Sara Duterte, citing shared roots in Mindanao and what she described as the strong track record of Duterte-led programs.
“I’ll go for Vice President Sara Duterte. I am from Mindanao, and we come from the same region,” Rabat said during a live interview online January 14. She emphasized that they have seen the positive impact of the programs initiated by the Dutertes.
Rabat’s endorsement comes as early political positioning begins for the 2028 national elections, with potential alliances and endorsements emerging well ahead of the official campaign period.
When asked about her own political ambitions for 2028, Rabat refrained from making specific declarations, noting that discussions about candidacy are still premature. “Running in 2028 is an open book. We will cross that bridge when we get there,” she said.
Despite keeping her personal plans undecided, Rabat emphasized that her family remains politically united. “All of the Rabats will remain united in 2028 and beyond.”
As a leading figure in Davao Oriental and a member of the influential Nakpil-Rabat clan, Rabat’s backing is expected to carry weight locally, particularly among Mindanao voters who continue to consider regional affiliation an essential factor in national leadership.
Vice President Sara Duterte, who previously served as Mayor of Davao City, has consistently maintained strong support in Mindanao, with supporters citing her family’s governance record and regional development programs as key factors in her appeal.
Although the 2028 elections are still several years away, Rabat’s endorsement signals early political alignment. It underscores the ongoing influence of Mindanao-based political networks in shaping the country’s national leadership landscape.
