Philippine Midterm Elections: Stakes High as Marcos and Duterte Clashes Intensify

The Philippines is holding its midterm elections with over 18,000 positions available, including 12 crucial Senate seats. Former President Rodrigo Duterte is running for mayor despite facing ICC charges. A notable rift between the Marcos and Duterte families emerges, potentially affecting Vice President Sara Duterte’s future in politics.

Today marks a critical day in the Philippines as millions participate in midterm elections, with more than 18,000 positions up for election. Voting opened at 7:00 AM local time and will continue until 7:00 PM. The focus is particularly on the fiercely contested 12 Senate seats, which will play a vital role in the potential impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Among the candidates running in this election is former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is again vying for the mayoral position of Davao despite facing charges at the International Criminal Court. The structure of the House of Representatives is also noteworthy; of the 317 seats available, 254 are district-elected while the remaining 63 come from party-list elections.

Former President Duterte’s political slate, commonly referred to as DuterTen, includes notable figures like trusted aide Bong Go and former police chief Ronald dela Rosa, both of whom have been integral to Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign which resulted in numerous deaths. Other candidates on this slate also include a pastor currently evading law enforcement and some familiar political faces.

In contrast, President Bongbong Marcos’ ticket comprises former celebrities, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, veterans of the Senate, and members from influential political families. Marcos’ alliance, known as Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, encapsulates a range of parties and interests, uniting under the umbrella of his leadership.

Once hailed as a dynamic duo in the recent 2022 elections, the bond between Marcos and Duterte has become tense. Initially seen as a beneficial alliance that united their respective political strongholds, recent events reveal a split, fueled by differing ambitions and approaches.

Despite being in The Hague awaiting trial, Rodrigo Duterte remains a key figure, as he strives to reclaim the mayoralty of Davao City—a position he may retain if he and his youngest son, who aims for the vice mayor role, succeed. This city has long been a stronghold for the Duterte family, known for its crime policies.

For both the Marcos and Duterte families, these elections represent a struggle to maintain influence, survival, and legacy in Philippine politics. Bongbong Marcos’ leadership, still fresh from his presidential victory, is under scrutiny, and securing Senate support may be crucial for the embattled Sara Duterte to avoid an impeachment that could hinder her political future.

Sara’s potential run for presidency in 2028 is contingent on the election outcomes today, as she has yet to officially announce her candidacy. Nevertheless, the results of this midterm election will shape the political landscape for years to come, indicating whether the Senate will continue to support the Duterte lineage or curtail their political aspirations.

Today’s midterm elections in the Philippines are more than just about numerous seats; they are a pivotal moment for both the Marcos and Duterte families as they navigate a complex rivalry. The results will not only determine local leadership but also set the stage for the future of Philippine governance. As voters head to the polls, the outcomes will have lasting implications for the political fates of both families, directly impacting Vice President Sara Duterte’s immediate future as well as the legacy of former President Rodrigo Duterte. It is clear that with power at stake, the stakes have never been higher for all parties involved.

Original Source: www.bbc.com