Sara-Imee: Tadhana Tandem?

Sara-Imee: Tadhana Tandem? | Daily Tribune

Just when you thought Philippine politics couldn’t get more telenovela, here comes Senator Robin Padilla dropping what may be the most eyebrow-raising teaser for 2028: a Sara-Imee tandem.

That’s right — Vice President Sara Duterte and Senator Imee Marcos, in what could be the political equivalent of a Red Bull cocktail: powerful, possibly unstable, and definitely not doctor recommended.

At first glance, one could be forgiven for thinking Robin was joking, perhaps in the middle of a presscon-turned-standup gig. But alas, the man seems serious — serious enough to offer himself as campaign manager. Who needs Leni Robredo’s pink army or Isko’s TikTokers when you’ve got Robinhood as your general? Say what you will about his politics, but you can’t accuse him of lacking confidence. Or imagination.

Let’s unpack this: VP Sara is currently juggling more than just motherhood and motorcades — she’s got an impeachment case hanging over her like a decorative sword in a palace made of eggshells.

Meanwhile, Senator Imee, the ever-plotting sister of the President, has been playing 5D chess while the rest of the Senate fumbles over who gets to wear the barong of the week. Combining their forces seems like a plot twist even Netflix would reject for being too on-the-nose.

Still, it’s easy to see the appeal of such a tandem — at least on paper. Duterte has the southern base, the “tapang at malasakit” brand, and enough political capital to make opponents nervous.

Imee, on the other hand, has the North and Central Luzon bloc, plus the family name that some still worship (and others still curse). Together, they’re a North-South axis of dynastic drama, a throwback to the old power alliances — but with extra lipstick and a TikTok filter.

But would it be good for the country? Well, that depends on your idea of “good.” If you think “good” means extending the life of political dynasties, keeping accountability optional, and ensuring that presscons are always entertaining, then absolutely. If, however, you were hoping for fresh faces, meaningful reforms, and a government less obsessed with internal rivalries than with external crises — eh, maybe don’t hold your breath.

Let’s not forget the glaring irony: one half of this proposed duo is facing possible conviction after being impeached. Should Sara survive that trial (and let’s be honest, the odds are stacked in her favor thanks to her House allies), she’ll come out politically hardened, possibly even more defiant. But if the Senate shockingly grows a spine and actually convicts her — well, the Sara-Imee ship will sink faster than your daily MRT commute.

And here’s another kicker: a Sara-Imee tandem implies one has to take the VP slot. Who bows to whom? Duterte supporters expect Sara to go for the top post, but Imee is no stranger to ambition — and certainly no stranger to outmaneuvering rivals, including those within her own family. A clash of egos could be just as entertaining as the campaign itself.

Ultimately, Robin Padilla’s proposal might just be the trailer to the circus that 2028 promises to be. It’s flippant, it’s flamboyant, and it might just happen. After all, in Philippine politics, stranger things have already sat in Malacañang.

And if it doesn’t? No worries — Robin can always star in the movie.