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MANILA — Robin Padilla said he is considering retiring abroad and may step away from politics if the country’s system of government remains unchanged by the 2028 elections, according to remarks he made in a recent interview.
Padilla tied his political future to long-standing calls for structural reform, including proposals to change the Philippines’ form of government. He said that without such changes, he does not see a continued role for himself in the current political framework.
Padilla, whose Senate term runs through 2028, has not made a formal declaration regarding a reelection bid.
Retirement tied to reform agenda
Padilla said he has been contemplating retirement for years, noting that the idea dates back to around 2010. He indicated that his decision to remain in public service would depend on whether reforms he has advocated gain traction before the next national elections.
He added that, absent such developments, he would prioritize private life with his wife, television host Mariel Rodriguez, and their children.
Quezon City property placed on the market
Padilla also confirmed that the family’s Museo de Padilla property in Quezon City is for sale. The residence, described as a Spanish-inspired home that has also been used for private functions, forms part of what he characterized as preparations for a possible retirement abroad.
He clarified that the sale is not intended to fund any political campaign for 2028.
Options abroad under consideration
Padilla said he and Rodriguez have explored several potential retirement locations, including Brunei, Iceland, the Netherlands and Germany.
He said Brunei was initially considered but ultimately deemed unsuitable due to climate preferences, while Iceland was described as appealing but expensive. The couple has also visited parts of Europe while assessing long-term options. No final decision has been announced.
Conditional outlook ahead of 2028
Padilla’s remarks were framed as contingent on future political developments rather than as a confirmed plan. He did not state that he will retire, leave the Philippines, or decline to run in 2028.
In a lighter exchange, he said he would prefer any property transaction to be conducted in U.S. dollars, citing personal concerns about the peso. The comment was delivered humorously and not as a formal economic position.
Padilla’s statements underscore uncertainty about his political future as the next election cycle approaches, with his continued participation in public office tied to the outcome of broader governance reforms he has supported.
