Television host Mariel Padilla said she believes Senator Robin Padilla still has unfinished work in public service despite earlier remarks suggesting he may no longer run in the 2028 elections.
Mariel made the statement during the latest episode of Senator Imee Marcos’ podcast “Imee&You,” where the discussion touched on Robin Padilla’s political future.
Senator Marcos recalled her reaction after hearing Robin previously mention the possibility of stepping away from politics after his current term.
“Nag-panic ako no’n. Nagsabi kasi siya, hindi na siya tatakbo ng 2028. Sabi ko, ‘Hoy! Ikaw ang pambato namin, ano ka ba?’” Marcos said.
The senator also brought up Mariel’s earlier statement implying that some people did not “deserve” Robin Padilla.
Clarifying her remarks, Mariel said she was referring to critics who continue to attack the senator despite his advocacy work.
“When I said that they don’t deserve him, I’m talking about those who say bad things about him. They do not deserve him,” Mariel said.
She added that many sectors continue to depend on Robin’s leadership, particularly Muslim and indigenous communities.
“But there are so many people — the Muslims, the indigenous groups — ang daming people na umaasa sa kanya. Kawawa talaga sila,” she added.
Mariel also admitted that she personally wants her husband to continue serving in government.
“When you ask me if I want him to continue, yes. For me, hindi pa po tapos. For me, marami pang hindi natutuunan ng pansin,” she said.
Robin Padilla remains one of the administration-aligned senators and has consistently advocated for federalism, Muslim representation, and indigenous peoples’ rights during his time in the Senate.
