Marcos Open to Duterte Reconciliation Amid Senate Shift

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed willingness to reconcile with Vice President Sara Duterte and her family after Duterte-backed candidates performed strongly in the recent Senate midterm elections. Marcos emphasized the importance of stability and alliances to advance his agenda during the remainder of his term, stating a preference for friendship over conflict. The formerly strong Marcos-Duterte alliance fractured after political differences, Sara Duterte's resignation from the Cabinet, her subsequent impeachment, and the arrest of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, at the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity. Despite administration expectations, Duterte-aligned candidates secured a significant Senate presence, which could influence Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial and her prospects for the 2028 presidential race. Marcos has distanced himself from the impeachment process, insisting it proceed independently in the Senate. The Senate election results highlight the Duterte family's continued influence in Philippine politics despite ongoing legal and political challenges.