Political Turmoil in the Philippines: Marcos and Duterte Feud Escalates

With both political dynasties grappling for dominance, implications for governance and public sentiment loom large as the impeachment trial approaches.

The Philippines is once again engulfed in political turmoil as the recent mid-term elections mark a turning point in the bitter feud between President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Vice-President Sara Duterte. Once allies following their landslide win in 2022, their relationship has deteriorated into a fierce rivalry characterized by accusations of treachery and political incompetence.

The elections ended with troubling results for the Marcos camp. Historically, incumbent presidents see most of their chosen candidates elected during mid-terms, but this time, only six of twelve winning senators align with Marcos. Crucially, four support Duterte, including Marcos's own sister, Imee, raising questions over the President's authority and the viability of his impeachment strategy against the Vice-President.

The rift escalated this year as the Marcos administration initiated actions leading to an impeachment trial for Duterte, further complicating their already strained relationship. Notably, the President's decision to send Rodrigo Duterte, Sara's father, to the International Criminal Court for his controversial anti-drug campaign has been framed as a betrayal by the Duterte camp. If the impeachment proceeds successfully, it would end Sara Duterte’s political aspirations for a future presidency she is currently favored to win.

Political analysts note that the senatorial election results signal a changing tide. The senators, often aligned with powerful family legacies, are becoming increasingly attuned to voter sentiment; many candidates hail from showbiz or political backgrounds, making loyalties unpredictable. As public opinion shifts against President Marcos, bolstered by his lackluster campaign presence and controversies surrounding his administration, the prospects for the impeachment look less favorable.

In a stirring campaign rally, Sara portrayed her father's extradition as an act of violence against their family, appealing to their remaining loyal bases. Meanwhile, Imee's strategic move to the Duterte camp has been viewed as a last-ditch effort to secure her own political future amidst dwindling support in her own right.

As both parties brace for the impending trial, it remains to be seen how the political dynamics will evolve. Historical precedent shows no Philippine president or vice-president has faced successful impeachment; however, the deteriorating relationships and public sentiments indicate that this political saga is far from over. Senators not aligned strictly with either camp may lean towards a third option, potentially complicating the already tenuous landscape of political power as the impeachment trial is set to open in July. With providing no clear resolution, the Philippines stands on the brink of a turbulent chapter.