President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inspected flood control operations in Naga City alongside Mayor Leni Robredo without discussing politics. He wore pink socks as a tribute to the mayor. The visit focused on Oplan Kontra Baha to address flooding linked to climate change.
During his visit to Naga City on February 22, 2026, President Marcos avoided discussing politics or a potential alliance with former Vice President Leni Robredo, his past election rival. Instead, he inspected Oplan Kontra Baha, a government project aimed at clearing waterways to mitigate flooding.
Joined by Robredo, Marcos toured the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum, named after the mayor's late husband, and Sagop Creek in Barangay Triangulo for dredging and cleaning activities. They later proceeded to Sitio Magaya-gaya Creek in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña.
"You know we did not talk about that. You know, I think the mayor will agree with me that service first before politics," Marcos told reporters. He laughed while displaying his pink socks: "The most political thing that we did today, I wore my pink socks. My pink socks in honor of Mayor Leni."
Pink was Robredo's campaign color. Marcos lost to Robredo in the 2016 vice presidential race but defeated her in the 2022 presidential election.
Marcos also handed over a Special Allotment Release Order worth P500 million for the coliseum's renovation, known as the 'Big Dome of the South.' Improvements include a community kitchen, enhanced drainage, and medical response areas. Built in 2010, it has served as an evacuation center during storms like Super Typhoon Rolly and Typhoon Kristine.
Marcos noted worsening floods in Bicol due to heavier rains from storms, exceeding those of Ondoy and Yolanda as per Robredo. Oplan Kontra Baha started on February 18 and will end on July 31, covering 29 rivers and creeks, two lakes, and 250.51 kilometers of drainage system.
Marcos dismissed coalition rumors, stating the visit was long-planned to tackle flooding. Having come from local government, he emphasized the national government's readiness to assist based on needs. He may return for the Maharlika Highway project.
On Vice President Sara Duterte's 2028 presidential bid, Marcos said: "Nothing really. It’s that – that’s her choice." Regarding his sister, Sen. Imee Marcos, as a potential running mate, "Again – again, this is all politics. I’m not going to – we’re not going to discuss politics now."
