MANILA — Malacañang firmly denied that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s scheduled visit to Naga City, where he is set to meet Mayor Leni Robredo, will include any political discussions, stressing that the trip is strictly focused on flood mitigation efforts under the administration’s nationwide campaign against flooding.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President’s visit on Saturday forms part of “Oplan Kontra Baha,” a government initiative aimed at clearing waterways and improving drainage systems to prevent severe flooding in vulnerable areas.
Castro dismissed speculation that the meeting between Marcos and Robredo could touch on future electoral plans or signal political realignments ahead of the 2028 presidential race.
“Wala po kasi talaga na pag-uusapan tungkol sa pangangampaniya o kung sino man ang magiging kandidato sa 2028,” Castro said.
She emphasized that discussions about the next presidential election are premature and not part of the administration’s priorities at this time.
“Napakaaga po para mamolitika. Andami pong dapat na ayusin sa bansa natin. Masyadong maaga ang pag-usapan kung sino tatakbo sa 2028,” she added.
The Palace official also downplayed interpretations that the upcoming meeting could carry political implications, particularly as it comes shortly after Vice President Sara Duterte publicly declared her intention to run for president in 2028.
Malacañang maintained that the President’s engagement in Naga is centered solely on governance, particularly strengthening flood control measures and ensuring effective implementation of projects designed to protect communities from recurring inundation./PN
