Philippines Holds Midterm Polls Testing Marcos-Duterte Rivalry

The Philippines held high-stakes midterm elections amid a bitter political feud between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, with the Senate race seen as a decisive factor for the country’s political future, including a potential impeachment trial of Duterte. President Marcos and his family actively participated in the voting, with the elections viewed as a referendum on his administration's popularity halfway through his term. The contest featured a split between candidates endorsed by Marcos and those aligned with Duterte, reflecting the fractured alliance between the two political clans. Beyond internal rivalries, the elections also highlighted voter concerns over economic pressures and the Philippines' strategic positioning amid tensions with China. Marcos has adopted a more assertive stance against China, contrasting with Duterte’s previous conciliatory approach, a key issue resonating with voters who prefer candidates defending Philippine sovereignty in the South China Sea. This election outcome could significantly influence the country's foreign policy direction and internal power dynamics for the remainder of Marcos's term.