Robredo on possibly giving way: Goal is to defeat Duterte, Marcos bets

Vice President Leni Robredo is open to not running if it means a better chance of defeat for the Duterte administration's bet and former Senator Bongbong Marcos, Jr. in the 2022 presidential race.

The opposition leader said she is aware she might face backlash from her supporters should she come to such as decision.

"Makaka-attest iyong mga kausap ko. Parati kong sinasabi na kapag nag-give way ako, sigurado ako na mumurahin ako ng ibang tao, iyong ibang supporters ko, magagalit sa akin...maraming magtatampo, sasama 'yung loob. Pero para sa akin, ready akong i-take iyon. 'Yung backlash, personal 'yun. Kaya ko iyon," she said in an interview over Ateneo Katipunan radio.

(The people I talked to can attest that in the event that I will give way, many people will curse at me, my supporters will be mad at me or harbor ill feelings on me. But I am ready for that. I can take the backlash)," she added.

"While I appreciate the support, hindi ako kakandidato to satisfy my supporters [alone]. Kakandidato ako if that is for the best interest of the country. Dapat hindi makabalik si Marcos at hindi magpatuloy ang ganitong klaseng pamumuno. Klaro 'yun," she added.

(I appreciate the support but I cannot run to satisfy my supporters alone. I will run if that is for the best interest of the country. Marcos and the administration candidate should not come out on top. That is clear.)

Robredo is pushing for a united opposition ticket, a goal that has yet to come to fruition.

Robredo has met with Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Senator Manny Pacquiao, Senator Panfilo Lacson and Senator Richard Gordon, among others.

The filing of candidacy is scheduled from October 1 to 8. —JST, GMA News