Zubiri says he’s mulling retirement

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri reiterated Monday that he will no longer run for public office and is considering retiring from politics.

“[T]o dispel any rumors that may arise, I would like to make it clear that I will not be running for any public office in 2028, and I am in fact contemplating on my retirement from almost 30 years of politics,” the Senate chief said in a statement.

Zubiri issued the remark after he received a 7% preference rating among politicians mentioned as possible vice presidential candidates in the 2028 national elections in a recent survey by Pulse Asia.

Despite this, the Senate leader extended his gratitude to his supporters.

He also assured the public that his last years in service will be “dedicated to uplifting the lives of every Filipino through meaningful legislation.”

“Whatever survey results showing positive reviews for me and for our institution is a testament to the Senate’s undying desire to render quality service to our people,” he said.

In July 2023, Zubiri had stated that he had no plan to run for higher office and was pondering retirement in 2028.

He had said that preserving the independence of the Senate would be his legacy.—Joahna Lei Casilao/AOL, GMA Integrated News