- The Duterte family maintains political influence despite Rodrigo Duterte’s ICC detention.
- Marcos Jr.’s coalition secures a Senate majority, strengthening his political hold.
- The Liberal Party stages a surprising comeback, gaining a key Senate seat.
The 2025 Philippine midterm elections have reaffirmed the enduring clout of the Duterte political dynasty. Former President Rodrigo Duterte won the Davao City mayoral race from his ICC detention cell.
Meanwhile, President Marcos Jr.’s coalition has emerged stronger, winning more than half of the 12 Senate seats up for grabs. However, the resurgence of the Liberal Party signals a shift in the country’s political dynamics. Once considered politically irrelevant, this party potentially sets the stage for a more fragmented and competitive political landscape ahead of the 2028 presidential election.
Marcos vs. Duterte: Power Struggle and Liberal Party’s Resurgence in Philippine Elections
The 2025 midterm elections in the Philippines have drawn global attention. Former President Rodrigo Duterte secured the mayoral seat in Davao City, despite his detention at the International Criminal Court. Duterte’s son, Sebastian, is also poised to become vice mayor, extending the family’s political influence in their hometown. Meanwhile, Sara Duterte, the current Vice President, faces an impeachment trial in the Senate. Her political future hangs in the balance.
In the Senate race, the Marcos coalition secured six out of twelve seats, consolidating President Marcos Jr.’s hold on the upper chamber. With a two-thirds majority needed for Sara Duterte’s impeachment, the Marcos camp’s newfound strength could determine the outcome of her trial. By extension, this may influence the political landscape leading up to the 2028 presidential race.
The Liberal Party’s surprising resurgence has added complexity to Philippine politics. After years of being sidelined, the party managed to secure a Senate seat. This hints at a potential comeback as opposition to both the Marcos and Duterte camps. This emerging three-way political equation could redefine alliances and strategies in the coming years.
As the dust settles, the political fault lines between the Marcos and Duterte factions are becoming more pronounced. What was once a powerful alliance has now fractured into rival camps, each vying for dominance. Meanwhile, the Liberal Party capitalizes on the rift. This emerging power struggle will likely shape the trajectory of Philippine politics leading up to the 2028 elections.
The 2025 Philippine elections have set the stage for a high-stakes political showdown. The Marcos and Duterte camps have emerged as fierce rivals, and the Liberal Party mounts an unexpected comeback.
“Power is not a means; it is an end.” — George Orwell
