High Stakes in the Philippines: Marcos vs. Duterte in a Midterm Showdown

Registration has started in the Philippines for the contentious May 2025 midterm elections, featuring a potentially fierce proxy battle between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. This election will test Marcos' popularity, offer a possibility to consolidate power, and witness the legacy-defining contest for Senate seats.

Registration for one of the world's largest midterm elections started in the Philippines on Tuesday, anticipated to be a fierce contest between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. The May 2025 elections serve as a crucial test for Marcos' popularity and a chance to consolidate his influence and prepare for a successor, despite the influential Duterte family's reluctance after a notable fallout.

With Philippine presidents restricted to a single six-year term, the focus is on 12 Senate seats out of 317 Congress seats and thousands of regional positions. Speculations are rife that Rodrigo Duterte and two of his sons may contest the senatorial race aimed at diminishing Marcos' power. Neither Duterte's office nor his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, responded to inquiries for comments.

The upcoming midterms follow the breakdown of what was once a potent alliance between the Marcos and Duterte families. Sara Duterte, initially a top presidential candidate in 2022, ran instead as Marcos' vice-presidential running mate. However, their relationship soured over policy disagreements and numerous scandals, forcing her resignation from the cabinet. Senate seats could provide the Dutertes with a significant platform to challenge Marcos' administration.

According to political experts, success in the midterms is essential for Marcos to secure his legislative agenda and fortify his political base. This could enable him to endorse a successor for the 2028 elections, shaping the country's future political climate.

(With inputs from agencies.)