Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a political landscape as fractured and volatile as the Philippines', any hint of an unusual alliance sends ripples—if not shockwaves—across the public consciousness. The latest controversy stems from former Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV, who made the eyebrow-raising claim that Vice President Sara Duterte and former Vice President Leni Robredo are allies—or at the very least, friends.
The reaction was swift and intense.
Atty. Barry Gutierrez, former spokesperson of Leni Robredo and a key figure in her 2022 presidential campaign, wasted no time in slamming the assertion. "Sara Duterte herself attacked Leni Robredo several times," he reminded the public. "She called her a fake VP and gave space to allegations of massive fraud in the 2016 elections. How is that friendly?"
THE TRUTH BEHIND THE NAGA VISIT
Much of the speculation about the so-called “alliance” traces back to a single moment: Vice President Sara Duterte’s unannounced visit to Robredo’s home in Naga City in August 2023. Trillanes now claims that this visit was “pre-arranged,” implying a clandestine meeting of political minds.
Gutierrez paints a very different picture: “[Robredo] received short notice that VP Duterte would drop by... If anything, it was VP Duterte who was banking on the buzz that the visit would generate.” The meeting, he emphasized, was neither coordinated nor cordial in a political sense. It was a courtesy call—one that stirred more controversy than consensus.
Indeed, even at the time of the visit, there was no joint statement, no photographed handshake outside the home, no hint of future collaboration. If anything, the incident looked like an opportunistic PR move by Duterte, not the forging of an alliance.
A QUESTION OF MOTIVES
So why would Trillanes, once a strong ally of Robredo and a staunch critic of the Dutertes, float such a narrative?
Some observers believe it’s all part of his ongoing campaign to promote Senator Risa Hontiveros as the ideal standard-bearer for the opposition in the 2028 presidential elections. In doing so, Trillanes appears to be undercutting Robredo’s influence and support base, perhaps hoping to clear the field for his preferred candidate.
But political commentators and ordinary citizens alike are questioning the wisdom of such tactics. “If he wants to promote Risa, then just promote Risa,” says one former supporter. “No need to get down and dirty like this. It’s not good for the opposition.”
Another laments: “Watak-watak na nga ang oposisyon, lalo pa niyang winawasak. It’s like he’s mounting a demolition job on Leni.”
Trillanes’ political career itself has been marked by turbulence. Once hailed as a brave oppositionist who took on the Duterte regime with fearlessness, he has now alienated many of his former allies. From Leila de Lima to Leni Robredo, few in the liberal bloc have been spared from his sharp rhetoric.
THE DANGEROUS GAME OF POLITICAL FICTION
In Philippine politics, perception often matters more than truth. The mere suggestion of a Robredo-Duterte alliance—however baseless—has the potential to demoralize supporters, fracture movements, and shift narratives. But responsible leadership requires more than bombastic soundbites; it demands integrity, clarity, and loyalty to the cause of truth.
The suggestion that Robredo—arguably the most vocal and credible face of the opposition during the Duterte presidency—would ally herself with the daughter of the very man she fiercely opposed is not only illogical, it’s a political insult.
Let us not forget: Sara Duterte has never retracted her claims against Robredo. She stood beside her father during his violent war on drugs and has defended his legacy more than once. Meanwhile, Leni Robredo has spent years advocating for human rights, transparency, and grassroots empowerment—principles that run counter to the Duterte playbook.
Their values are oil and water. An alliance between them is not only improbable—it’s politically suicidal for either side.
UNITY THROUGH STRATEGY, NOT SUSPICION
There is an urgent need for unity among opposition forces. But unity cannot be achieved through innuendo, manipulation, or strategic misinformation. If the goal is to challenge the entrenched dynasties and oppressive systems of Philippine politics in 2028, then it must begin with honesty and mutual respect among all opposition players.
The way forward lies in rational dialogue—not character assassination. If Senator Risa Hontiveros is to lead the opposition in 2028, let her leadership be built on merit, not on the ashes of others’ reputations.
THE FINAL VERDICT
CLAIM: Leni Robredo and Sara Duterte are allies.
Verdict: FALSE.
There is no substantial evidence to support any form of alliance or political collaboration between the two. Public records, statements from Robredo's team, and even their public postures suggest a wide ideological and personal gulf between them.
Trillanes' statement is not only baseless—it’s counterproductive. If anything, it weakens the opposition’s already fragile foundation at a time when unity should be the top priority.
In the words of seasoned observers: “There are no permanent allies in politics, only permanent interests.” But in this case, even the interests don’t align.
And if we want real change in 2028, let’s stop chasing shadows—and start building bridges based on truth.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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