Malacañang on Wednesday maintained that unity should take precedence over political color following recent public interactions between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former Vice President Leni Robredo, now mayor of Naga City.

Speculation about a possible coalition in the 2028 presidential elections surfaced after Marcos and Robredo were seen together in recent days, fueling talk of a potential alliance against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Through Palace press officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, the Palace emphasized that what matters most is serving the country’s best interests.

Castro said recent gestures of cooperation — from symbolic displays to the recognition of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao — demonstrate that political rivalry need not hinder public service.

“Sa pagkikita nina Pangulong Marcos Jr. at Mayor Leni Robredo sa Naga City at sa pagkilala sa ambag ni former Senator Manny Pacquiao sa larangan ng sports, ipinamalas ng tatlong lider na kahit naging magkatunggali sila sa nakaraang eleksyon ay hindi ito magiging hadlang sa pagtutulungan at pagse-serbisyo para sa bayan,” she said during a Palace press briefing.

Both Pacquiao and Robredo ran against Marcos in the 2022 national elections.

Castro also stressed that premature politicking should be avoided to allow leaders to focus on governance.

She added that when a leader is honest, humble and free of personal interest, national progress is assured.

During his recent visit to Naga City, Marcos expressed readiness to support the local government.

Castro said Naga is among the cities the national government is prioritizing in efforts to address flooding and other concerns.

Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros earlier said the United Opposition is open to a possible alliance with the administration for the 2028 presidential elections. Her remarks came days after she met with Marcos during a Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council meeting in Malacañang.