By Karen Lema and Mikhail Flores
As registration kicks off for the Philippines' midterm elections, all eyes are on the potential showdown between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and former President Rodrigo Duterte. The May 2025 election will test Marcos' popularity and his bid to solidify power.
While there are 317 seats in Congress and thousands of local positions up for grabs, the focus is on the 12 Senate seats that could shape the country's political landscape. Speculation is rife that Duterte and his sons may enter the senatorial race to challenge Marcos.
The rift between the two families has grown, leading to a bitter fallout after their initial alliance propelled Marcos to victory in 2022. The Dutertes now see the Senate as a powerful platform to counter Marcos' agenda and investigate his administration.
Despite challenges, Marcos is rallying support by endorsing prominent figures for the Senate, while Duterte's popularity remains a wildcard in the upcoming race. The outcome of the midterms could determine the future of Philippine politics and the legacy of President Marcos.
Analysis: The Philippines' midterm elections in 2025 are set to be a battleground between Marcos Jr and Duterte, with Senate seats playing a crucial role in shaping the country's future. For investors and citizens alike, the results could impact policies, governance, and economic stability. Understanding the dynamics of this election is key to anticipating potential changes in leadership and direction, which could have far-reaching consequences for the Philippines' financial markets and overall stability.
