A multi-sectoral movement supporting Senator Risa Hontiveros has formally expanded to Cebu, marking an early grassroots push for her possible presidential bid in the 2028 national elections.
The Cebu chapter of the “Risa Na!” movement was launched on Saturday, July 4, at Southwestern University PHINMA, drawing participants from youth groups, labor organizations, transport workers, farmers, fisherfolk, urban poor communities, professionals, educators, women’s groups, LGBTQIA+ advocates, environmental organizations, religious groups, and other civil society sectors.
Organizers said the initiative is part of a nationwide effort introduced in June 2026 to encourage Hontiveros to consider a presidential run, while emphasizing that it is not an official campaign but a coalition-building platform focused on governance, accountability, democratic reforms, and social justice.
Progressive groups including Partido Manggagawa, Sentro, and Samahang Magdalo also joined the Cebu launch, signaling wider sectoral alignment behind the movement.
Supporters who attended the event said their participation was driven by Hontiveros’ legislative record and advocacies, which they believe reflect the kind of leadership they want for the country’s top post.
A fisherfolk representative from Talisay City said Hontiveros has consistently supported issues affecting farmers and fisherfolk.
“Magkahiusa ta sa pagpili sa usa ka kandito nga andam makigbisog alang kanatong tanan,” Joksan Barzuela said.
Urban poor and vendor leader Gemma Rosaceña pointed to the continuing challenges faced by informal workers and expressed hope for stronger policy support.
She also cited the proposed Magna Carta for Informal Workers, which was filed by Hontiveros, as a measure she hopes will advance further.
“Gusto gyud nako nga madala ug mapasar gyud para gyud na sa kaayohan sa mga vendor, mga driver, mga mangingisda, mag-uuma ug uban pang mga gagmay nga nanginabuhi,” she said.
LGBTQIA+ advocate and content creator Christian Ceniza, known as “Ms. Aktwaaa,” said he has supported Hontiveros since 2010 and highlighted her long-standing advocacy for the SOGIESC Equality Bill, which seeks protection against discrimination in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
Political content creator Lovely Granada said she supports leaders who demonstrate integrity, accountability, and public service, adding that she believes Hontiveros reflects those qualities.
She also described the Cebu launch as an opportunity for Cebuano voices to be included in national discussions on leadership.
The Cebu chapter launch follows Hontiveros’ statement during a June 19 visit to Cebu, where she said she was “seriously considering” a national post in 2028 and emphasized the need for opposition groups to work toward unity behind a single candidate by late 2026 or early 2027.
Photo by Kaiser Jan Fuentes
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