Philippines Midterm Elections Heat Up Amid Marcos-Duterte Feud

The Philippines’ midterm elections have kicked off amid deep political divisions, fueled by the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. The move threatens her political future and intensifies the rift with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., her former ally.

Their fallout has reshaped the political landscape, turning the elections into a high-stakes battle ahead of the 2028 presidential race. Marcos, limited to a single term, seeks a successor, while Duterte could still run if she survives impeachment.

The May elections will fill 317 congressional seats and thousands of local positions, but the biggest contest lies in the Senate, where 12 of 24 seats are up for grabs. The Senate will also serve as the jury in Duterte’s impeachment trial in June, requiring 16 votes to convict.

A Pulse Asia survey last month showed Marcos-backed candidates leading the Senate race, but Duterte’s camp remains in contention, keeping the vice president's influence alive. Her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, remains a powerful figure, running for mayor in Davao City alongside his sons.

The crisis erupted on February 5, when the House, led by Marcos’ cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez, impeached Sara Duterte over allegations of budget anomalies, amassing wealth, and threats against Marcos and his family. Duterte denies wrongdoing, while Marcos has distanced himself from the proceedings.

Political analyst Ronald Llamas sees the impeachment as a pivotal moment, potentially boosting Marcos’ influence by sidelining Duterte ahead of 2028. “If Sara is convicted, the playing field shifts,” he said.

With a power struggle at play, the elections will shape the country’s political future, making it one of the most closely watched contests in years.