CEBU, Philippines — A local chapter of the Save the Philippines Coalition was formally launched in Consolacion on Sunday, March 8, gathering local leaders and supporters who expressed backing for Vice President Sara Duterte ahead of the 2028 presidential elections.
The Consolacion chapter was spearheaded by former mayoral candidate Blesilda “Bingle” Villo, who said the coalition aims to organize supporters and begin informing the public early about the group’s political stance.
Villo said the movement seeks to unite individuals from various sectors who are critical of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and who support Duterte’s possible presidential bid in 2028.
“This is a coalition of people from different walks of life who want to join the movement to save the country from the present administration,” Villo said.
The gathering was attended by several former local officials, including former Cebu City mayor Michael Rama, former Mandaue City mayor Jonas Cortes, former Lapu-Lapu City mayor Paz Radaza, former Talisay City vice mayor Alan Bucao, former Consolacion mayor Avelino J. Gungob Sr., and vice gubernatorial candidate Lito Ruiz.
Organizers said Consolacion is the first municipality in Cebu to formally establish a chapter of the coalition. Villo added that supporters from other areas, including Compostela, Liloan, Daanbantayan, and even parts of Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Mindanao, have expressed interest in forming similar groups.
The coalition is also linked to national figures such as former Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez and former congressman Mike Defensor, whom Villo identified as among its founders.
During the orientation and covenant signing, Villo said the early establishment of local chapters would help gauge public support and mobilize volunteers ahead of the next national elections.
Villo also welcomed expressions of support from other local leaders, including Consolacion Councilor Leo Napuli, who recently said he backs Duterte’s possible presidential run.
Organizers said the coalition plans to expand its chapters in other parts of Cebu and eventually hold a convention with parallel support groups backing Duterte’s potential candidacy. — Elizabeth Salarde, UP Cebu intern / FPL (FREEMAN)