Philippine Mid-Term Elections: Marcos and Duterte Families Face Critical Stakes

The Philippines is voting in mid-term elections today, with over 18,000 positions available. Key elections include 12 Senate seats that may impact Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment. Former President Rodrigo Duterte is running for mayor of Davao despite ICC charges. The elections showcase the growing fractures in the Marcos-Duterte alliance, once seen as a political dream team after the 2022 election victory.

The Philippines is experiencing a significant political event, with mid-term elections taking place today. A staggering 18,000 elected positions are available, creating heightened interest among voters. Polls kicked off at 07:00 local time and are scheduled to close at 19:00. Of particular note are the 12 Senate seats up for grabs, which could influence Vice President Sara Duterte’s ongoing impeachment proceedings.

Among the notable candidates is former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is seeking to reclaim his former role as mayor of Davao City. He remains on the ballot despite facing trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for serious accusations related to his controversial “war on drugs” that left thousands dead. The election today will determine mayors, vice-mayors, and councillors across various city and municipal levels.

The political landscape is particularly colored by former President Duterte’s senatorial slate, which includes trusted allies such as Bong Go and Ronald dela Rosa, both of whom played critical roles during Duterte’s tenure. This slate, called DuterTen, features a mix of personalities, including some with checkered pasts, like fugitive pastor Apollo Quiboloy. Many candidates hail from the PDP-Laban party, a prominent pro-democracy entity from years past.

Countering the Duterte camp is Bongbong Marcos, former movie star and son of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. His coalition, the Alliance for the New Philippines, represents a blend of legacy politicians, including the influential Villar family. Daughter Camille Villar aims to replace her mother, Cynthia, while her brother Mark holds a senator’s seat. This slate is viewed as a pivotal component for Marcos’ continued influence in national politics.

The alliance between the Marcos and Duterte families—often referred to as the “UniTeam”—secured a resounding victory in the 2022 general elections. Their partnership seemed promising initially, merging power from both northern and southern Philippines. However, tensions have arisen since their triumphant campaign, reflecting diverging political ambitions that could alter their relationship.

In Davao City, Rodrigo Duterte’s potential return as mayor is significant, especially as his son, Sebastian, vies for the vice-mayoral position. With the Duterte family’s history of holding power in Davao for decades, a victory would underscore their continued dominance. Critics, however, point fingers at Davao as the starting point for Duterte’s death squad, exacerbating the scrutiny from human rights organizations.

For the Marcos and Duterte families, the stakes are high and extend beyond elections. Bongbong Marcos must solidify his leadership and bolster his support in the Senate to navigate through Sara Duterte’s impeachment challenges. If Sara is barred from seeking the presidency in 2028, it could signify a fatal blow to the Duterte family’s political legacy. Likewise, this election will serve as a critical assessment of Sara’s appeal as she eyes her presidential run in the future.

As millions of Filipinos cast their votes today, the transformation of political dynamics among these two powerful families will be closely monitored. The results are not just about securing positions but also about determining the future of leadership in the Philippines as both families grapple with their pasts and aspirations for power.

Close ties between the two families may continue to unravel as they face pressing challenges and ambitions. Today’s election plays a crucial role in shaping not only the Senate but the broader political landscape leading into the 2028 presidential campaign, where alliances and family legacies will undoubtedly be tested.

In summary, the mid-term elections in the Philippines mark a crucial moment for both the Marcos and Duterte families as they navigate a dynamic and evolving political landscape. With high stakes on the line, the outcomes will impact future power structures and presidential ambitions. Where the last alliance flourished, tensions now hint at a possible rift, making the results of this election critical for their respective legacies.

Original Source: www.bbc.com