President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said he is open to reconciling with the Duterte family following weeks of escalating political tensions and a surprising Senate election outcome that boosted the power of Vice President Sara Duterte.
In a podcast published on his Facebook page, Marcos addressed the strained ties with the Dutertes and emphasized his desire for political stability during the remaining three years of his presidency. He said that reconciliation is a possible path, especially with national governance at stake.
Marcos explained that unity is crucial to accomplishing his policy goals, expressing that he prefers allies over adversaries. While he did not provide details on how such reconciliation would unfold, his statement marked a significant shift in tone after a public fallout fractured the alliance that brought both him and Sara Duterte to power in 2022.
Sara Duterte holds Senate ground amid impeachment heat
The statement came one week after Marcos allies underperformed in the fiercely contested Senate race, allowing several Duterte-aligned candidates to secure seats. This electoral upset gave Sara Duterte a solid foothold in the Senate—critical as she faces a looming impeachment trial.
Though surveys had forecasted a strong showing for the president’s camp, the results favored opposition figures, creating a new dynamic in Congress. All 24 senators will act as jurors during Sara Duterte’s trial. Two-thirds of their votes are needed to remove her from office, a move that would permanently bar her from seeking the presidency in 2028.
The vice president has remained silent on Marcos’ call for reconciliation. Her office has yet to issue a formal response to the president’s podcast remarks.
Rodrigo Duterte wins local post while detained at ICC
Further complicating the political landscape, former President Rodrigo Duterte—Sara’s father—secured a mayoral win in Davao City despite being in custody at the International Criminal Court. He faces charges of murder as a crime against humanity, stemming from his controversial war on drugs.
His continued influence, especially in the south, remains a formidable force in Philippine politics. Political analysts note that even while in detention, his popularity in key regions contributed to the Senate wins of several Duterte-backed candidates.
Marcos keeps distance from impeachment process
President Marcos clarified that he has no involvement in the Senate-led impeachment trial against Sara Duterte. He stressed that constitutional processes must be respected and allowed to proceed without interference.
He noted that the executive branch will not meddle in the legislature’s responsibilities, suggesting that the rule of law must guide all political actions moving forward.
As the nation watches the evolving power dynamics, Marcos reiterated his commitment to stability, signaling that while divisions remain, cooperation may still be possible.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.