Senator Raffy Tulfo announced that he will not run for president or vice president in the 2028 national elections, putting an end to months of speculation about a possible bid for higher office.

“Wala akong balak… As of today, as of the future. Final answer,” Tulfo said in a press briefing on Monday, March 2.

Instead, the senator confirmed he will seek reelection in 2028.

“Definitely. I will run for re-election. 'Yan, itaga niyo sa bato. I will run for re-election sa 2028 as Senator ‘yan,” he said.

Tulfo said he has decided to remain in the Senate, where he believes he can be more effective and directly engaged with the public.

According to him, serving as a senator allows him to interact face-to-face with people and provide concrete solutions to their problems.

“Masaya ako dito sa Senado. Marami akong nagagawa. For me, happy ako rito, so bakit ako pupunta sa isang bagay na magkakaroon pa ako ng sakit sa ulo?” he said.

Tulfo explained that holding a higher executive position comes with constant criticism, regardless of performance.

“‘Pag ikaw ay nandoon sa taas, damn if you do, damn if you don’t. Kung gumawa ka nang tama, meron pa ring kokontra sa’yo na mali ka. Hindi ka gumawa, sabihin tamad ka at wala kang pakinabang. Wala kang pupuntahan do’n eh,” he added.

Tulfo said he would remain independent but would support candidates whose advocacies align with his own, whether they belong to the administration or the opposition.

He also revealed that several private individuals have approached him to encourage a presidential run, but he has consistently declined their proposals.

“May mga nagsasabing pwede ka rito… Sabi ko, I’m sorry, salamat sa tiwala pero flat ‘no’ agad,” Tulfo said.

The senator further denied reports that he had been offered a vice presidential slot by Vice President Sara Duterte or a higher position by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr..