Korina Sanchez considers Senate run as calls for her to enter politics grow

“Actually, matagal na akong may plano, dati-dati pa. Napipigilan parati. Palagay ko mapipigilan na naman ako,” she shared in a previous interview with the press.

Despite her hesitation, Sanchez acknowledged that the decision can no longer simply be brushed aside, especially as more people continue to encourage her to run.

“Lahat sila gusto akong tumakbo, pero mahirap na. Kailangan alamin muna natin ang kailangan…”

For Sanchez, entering public office would require more than simply having name recognition or public support. She believes prospective candidates should first understand what genuine public service demands, particularly at a time when she feels some politicians have lost sight of their original purpose.

“Marami namang may sense, sa una. Tapos nawawala bigla ‘yong sense… ‘yong ‘cents’ nagiging pesos… naging millions and billions and dollars.”

Her remarks reflect her concern over politicians who may begin with genuine intentions but eventually become consumed by money and personal interests.

That perspective could become central to Sanchez’s own considerations about a possible political career. After decades in broadcasting, she has built a reputation around interviewing public officials, examining government issues and bringing political stories closer to the public. 

The question now is whether that experience is enough to make the transition from journalist to legislator. Sanchez also shared that her husband, former Senator Mar Roxas, is himself hesitant about returning to politics.

“Gusto niya ng public service, but it has to be the right position. Maybe, I guess, the positions offered to him are ‘been there, done that,’ you know.

“So, siya naman, inaasahan din naman niya, tulad natin lahat, ‘di ba? Gusto natin magtagumpay ang administrasyon.”

Sanchez also highlighted one of Roxas’ legislative achievements during his years in government, pointing to Republic Act No. 9501, which amended the Magna Carta for Small Enterprises and strengthened programs supporting micro, small and medium enterprises.

She particularly cited provisions allowing qualified borrowers to access bank financing without traditional collateral requirements.

“Alam mo ba na puwede kang umutang sa bangko ng walang collateral? Batas ‘yan na ginawa ni Mar Roxas. E, alam ko pero nobody knows about it. The banks will not tell you. Kasi ayaw nila magpautang ng walang collateral.”

As Sanchez weighs whether to finally make the leap into politics, her possible Senate bid raises a bigger question: Can years of experience in journalism, public affairs and dealing with national issues translate into effective lawmaking?

For now, Sanchez has not closed the door on the possibility. But if she does decide to run, she would be entering a political arena where her credibility as a broadcaster would be tested against the demands, expectations and scrutiny that come with public office.

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