While 2024 offers the potential for a world celebration of democracy, the waves of turmoil within the Philippines appear to be even stronger. Current president Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. he was only elected in mid-2022 and his term is lower than two years old, but his alliance with Duterte already appears to be fracturing.
On Sunday (January 28), Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte addressed crowds at separate events. This event reflects a deepening split among the many ruling elite.
Rodrigo Duterte held a rally in his hometown of Davao that was attended by over 40,000 people. Meanwhile, elsewhere, Marcos unveiled his administration’s latest slogan, “Bagong Pilipinas,” or “New Philippines,” in front of about 400,000 people in Manila.
The presidential elections within the Philippines are different from those in another countries. There, the president and vp are elected individually. In 2022, Duterte-Carpio won the vice-presidential position with 32.21 million votes, or about 61.5% of the full votes. Duterte-Carpio also has the best approval rating among the many country’s 4 top officials. Meanwhile, Marcos Jr. won 31.62 million votes, or roughly 58.7% of the full votes.
Throughout their time in office, this presidential and vice-presidential duo faced serious challenges related to the crimes committed under the leadership of their fathers. Rodrigo Duterte is referred to as the driving force behind the nationwide war on drugs that has killed 1000’s. Meanwhile, Ferdinand Marcos Sr., a former dictator before he was overthrown, ruled during a period of corruption and human rights violations from 1965 to 1986.
Nevertheless, the descendants of each leaders proceed to enjoy significant domestic support, partly due to entrenched political dynasties within the Philippines. However, tensions are rising between the 2 families as they seek to consolidate their support bases and secure strategic positions ahead of the upcoming midterm elections and the 2028 presidential race during which Sara Duterte is widely expected to contest.
In the newest dispute, Marcos supported efforts to amend the 1987 structure. This structure was introduced by his father, Ferdinand Marcos Sr., to open the doors more widely to foreign investment. However, the Duterte family opposes the move. Duterte firmly conveyed this during a gathering in Davao last Sunday, warning Marcos that he may suffer the identical fate as his father if he continues trying to vary the structure.
Critics warn the move could pave the best way for Marcos to hunt one other six-year term, which is currently prohibited. It would also put him in direct competition with Sarah Duterte for the highest job. The cracks within the Marcos-Duterte coalition have grow to be more visible since last 12 months. This got here as Marcos’ allies in Congress began to query Vice President Sara Duterte’s request for confidential funds and as the federal government tightened its ties with the United States after previously leaning toward China. Recent efforts to vary the structure, backed by Marcos, have further exacerbated tensions between the 2 sides ahead of the upcoming elections.
Rafaela David, chairwoman of the Akbayan political party, said in a press release on Sunday that the meetings in Manila and Davao highlight the disturbing situation. According to her, the war between the ruling political dynasties only strengthens the interests of the dynasties and existing political elites, while ignoring the urgent needs of the Filipino people.
