Philippines goes to polls in midterms amid Marcos-Duterte proxy battle | World News
Voters across the Philippines cast their ballots on Monday in high-stakes midterm elections, as a growing rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte dominates the political landscape. Though neither Marcos nor Duterte are on the ballot, their rivalry has transformed the normally low-profile midterms into a referendum on the country’s power dynamics.
More than 18,000 positions are up for grabs, including mayoral posts, governorships, and key seats in the lower house.
What’s at stake?
President Marcos and Vice President Duterte both voted early in their respective home towns. For Marcos, control of the Senate is critical to pushing forward his legislative agenda and securing his legacy ahead of the 2028 presidential race. For Duterte, the results could determine her political survival.
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An impeachment complaint against Duterte — alleging misuse of public funds, unexplained wealth, and threats against key political figures — looms over the vote. If it moves forward, the Senate would serve as the trial court. A conviction would require at least 16 votes, effectively removing Duterte from office and barring her from future public service.
“Whatever happens with the impeachment, whether a guilty (verdict) or acquittal, I’m ready for whatever happens,” Duterte told reporters after voting.
Political observers say the Senate race has become the main proxy battlefield for the two camps.
Among the vice president’s endorsed Senate slate are allies of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte — including the ex-police chief who oversaw the controversial “war on drugs” that led to thousands of deaths.Story continues below this ad
Sara Duterte said she had spoken to her father, who is currently detained in The Hague, where he faces trial at the International Criminal Court. More than two of his endorsed Senate candidates are likely to win, she claimed.
Despite his detention, Rodrigo Duterte remains politically active and is running for mayor in his hometown.
Allegations and collapsed alliance
The bitter feud marks a dramatic shift from 2022, when the Marcos and Duterte families joined forces in a powerful alliance that swept national elections. But that unity has since fractured, turning into a public war of words and political sabotage.
Duterte has accused Marcos of orchestrating a smear campaign against her and her family, while Marcos has denied any personal role in the impeachment proceedings.Story continues below this ad
Sara Duterte has also criticised Marcos for allowing the extradition of her father to a foreign court, saying the move amounted to selling out national sovereignty.
(With inputs from Reuters)
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