Ping Lacson Announces His Retirement Year: 'I'm Nearing the Twilight of My Career' — Done by 2031

After five decades in public service, Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson is calling it quits — well, in 2031, at least. The Senate President Pro Tempore told reporters at the PMA Alumni Homecoming in Baguio City on Saturday that he will not seek any elected position after his current Senate term ends. "I am nearing the twilight of my career," the 77-year-old senator said.

Lacson, who will turn 78 in June, has had one of the longest careers in Philippine public service. From his days as PNP chief to multiple Senate terms to a presidential run, the former cop-turned-lawmaker says he's done. "I am still eligible for reelection in 2031 but I am not intending to. I intend to finish my public service career in 2031," he said flatly.

When asked if anyone had approached him about running in the 2028 national elections, Lacson's answer was equally direct: "Absolutely none." With Vice President Sara Duterte's presidential bid announcement and the Marcos-Robredo meeting in Naga City dominating political headlines, Lacson seems content to stay on the sidelines of the 2028 political circus.

The senator did weigh in on the Marcos-Robredo meeting, however, playing it down as purely functional. He said the President requested the Senate to appropriate funds under the Local Government Support Fund to help LGUs — including Naga City — especially those hit hard by calamities. "Yan ang main agenda nila," he said.

Love him or not, Lacson has been one of the more consistent voices in the Senate — from anti-corruption crusades to national security. His decision to retire in 2031 marks the end of an era for a generation of Filipinos who've watched him go from chasing criminals to chasing bad legislation. Five decades of service is no joke. Salamat, Senator. 🫡

Source: Manila Bulletin