Movement backing Sara’s candidacy launched in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines — A movement whose aim is to officially express support and unity for the possible candidacy of Sara Duterte in the 2028 elections, dubbed “Tatay Digong for Inday Sara Movement 2028,” was officially launched in Cebu.

During a press conference held yesterday, February 15, the group said the movement also aims to honor the leadership of Sara’s father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, widely called by his supporters as “Tatay Digong.”

Supporters, organizers, and representatives from various sectors attended the event to present their plans and direction for expanding support in the region.

The launch was led by Jing Paras, former representative of the 1st District of Negros Oriental, together with Cebu local leaders Jun Abines, Moises Deiparine, and Melchor Empleo, among others.

According to the convenors, a series of activities and grassroots mobilization efforts will begin in the coming months to strengthen the organization and broaden support across the entire province of Cebu.

Paras, one of the movement’s convenors, highlighted the dual vision of the group: paying tribute to Tatay Digong and ramping up political support for Vice President Sara Duterte.

He also cited the challenges faced by supporters in the political arena, mentioning “harassment and suppression” at the local level.

Looking ahead, Paras outlined plans to strengthen the movement’s organizational structure.

“We will be able to fix the organization, which will also be our mother organization. By the upcoming election, we will have strengthened this organization to serve as the backbone of our movement,” he said.

Local leader Jun Abines emphasized Cebu’s importance as the launch venue, citing its historical, cultural, and political significance.

He said the gathering was intended not only to unite supporters but also to encourage dialogue, learning, and collaboration between local and national leaders.

“We want to bring national leadership to us so that leaders of small organizations can consult, compare, learn, and exchange ideas,” Abines said.

“The presence of our guests in Cebu allows us to make friends, get contacts, and learn from one another. This is not about politics as usual; this is about recognizing Cebu’s strength,” he added.

Abines clarified that the gathering was not intended to impose outside authority.

“Do not take this as people coming from Manila to tell us what to do. No. This is a recognition of the strength of Cebu. Cebu is united. Cebu is solid. Cebu is a fighter. That is the basis,” he added.

The movement also announced plans for organizational strengthening ahead of the 2028 elections, including conventions and coordinated activities in 2026 to enhance structure and outreach.

Atty. Salvador Diputado, former DA-7 Regional Director and head of Lawyers for Sara Duterte, spoke about their long-term preparations.

“Back in the 2019–2022 elections, we already began laying the groundwork for Sara Duterte’s potential 2028 candidacy,” he said.

He highlighted cooperation among leaders and groups, emphasizing unity over rivalry.

“We complement each other. This is not about competition. We align our strategies for one common purpose: supporting Sara Duterte in 2028,” Diputado said.

He reaffirmed the movement’s ultimate objective. “I will make sure that our president in 2028 will be Sara. Our role now is to organize, strategize, and prepare. We are here to support and ensure that our goal is achieved,” he added, highlighting the commitment and unity of Cebu’s organization.

The launch underscored that the movement extends beyond election support. It seeks to foster civic engagement, unity, and dialogue across communities. According to the organizers, Cebu was chosen as the starting point for its historical importance as the cradle of Christianity in the Philippines and as a symbol of faith, resilience, and civic pride.

“We are gathered here not for personal gain or individual interests, but for our shared purpose and common good,” Abines said. “Cebu represents courage, unity, and a deep love for freedom, and it is fitting that this movement begins here.”

The event concluded with a call to action for supporters to actively engage in political and civic initiatives, strengthen community collaboration, and uphold the values and legacy of “Tatay Digong” while preparing for the 2028 elections.

Abines further said that with the launch of “Tatay Digong for Inday Sara Movement 2028,” this signals the start of a structured, long-term campaign to consolidate grassroots support and reinforce Cebu’s strategic role in Philippine politics.