THE MARCOS-DUTERTE FEUD

The Power Struggle Shaping Philippine Politics

By: Ulysses C. Ybiernas | November 29, 2024

Dutertes versus Marcoses

The political influence of Rodrigo and Sara Duterte has evidently surpassed that of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his cousin, House Speaker Martin Romualdez. This dynamic reflects the waning power of the Marcos-Romualdez faction in contrast to the sustained mass appeal of the Dutertes.

The Marcos camp's attempt to undermine the Dutertes began with a public campaign spearheaded by religious leader Apollo Quiboloy, a known ally of Rodrigo Duterte, back in September. This initiative extended into Congress, where a coalition of four House committees launched an aggressive investigation into the Dutertes, accusing the former president of extrajudicial killings during his anti-drug campaign and scrutinizing Vice President Sara Duterte's confidential funds. However, these efforts have largely backfired, appearing more theatrical than substantive.

A Divided Political Landscape

The Marcos administration has struggled to garner support for its moves against the Dutertes. This is quite evident in the Senate, where not a single senator, even Duterte critics, has rallied behind the Marcos-Romualdez efforts. Notably, Senator Risa Hontiveros, a prominent Duterte critic, has remained silent since Rodrigo Duterte's staunch defense during a Senate hearing on October 30. Even former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, a close Marcos ally, opted for neutrality, urging calm and national unity.

President Marcos’ inability to navigate this political feud effectively was evident in his reaction to Sara Duterte’s sarcastic remark about hiring “somebody” to kill him and Romualdez. Instead of dismissing the comment with wit, Marcos responded with exaggerated seriousness, portraying himself as deeply shaken by the remark.

Missteps in Strategy

The Marcos-Romualdez camp’s response to the feud has only highlighted their strategic missteps. Speaker Romualdez’s attempt to solidify support with a speech in Congress pledging allegiance to his cousin fell flat, reportedly met with widespread apathy among lawmakers. His demand for absent members to explain their absence only underscored the lack of enthusiasm for his leadership.

Romualdez’s political inexperience has also been a liability. Despite his long-standing role as a caretaker of his family’s wealth and influence in Leyte, he has not demonstrated the charisma or political acumen required to rally national support. His public appearances often come across as uninspiring, further weakening the Marcos camp's position.

A Fragile Alliance

The alliance between the Marcos and Duterte factions was instrumental in the 2022 elections, with the Dutertes’ endorsement delivering critical votes from Mindanao and across the nation. However, the current rift reveals a fundamental breakdown in trust. President Marcos’ actions, including sidelining former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, targeting pro-Duterte media outlets, and weaponizing Congress against the Dutertes, have alienated many of his former allies.

Critics speculate that these moves are part of a broader strategy to neutralize Sara Duterte’s political ambitions ahead of the 2028 presidential elections, potentially clearing the way for Romualdez to succeed Marcos.

Public Sentiment and Political Implications

The Marcos family’s controversial history continues to cast a shadow over their political aspirations. For many Filipinos, the memory of the elder Marcos' dictatorship and the unresolved issues surrounding alleged ill-gotten wealth remain a source of distrust. These sentiments, coupled with the ongoing feud, risk eroding Marcos Jr.’s support base.

Looking ahead, the outcome of this feud could significantly shape the country’s political landscape. If the Marcos camp persists in targeting the Dutertes, it risks sparking widespread unrest, possibly even a coup. On the other hand, allowing the feud to simmer could strengthen Sara Duterte’s position for the 2028 elections, leaving her as the uncontested frontrunner.

The broader implications of this political turmoil extend beyond domestic politics. With the Philippines playing a pivotal role in U.S.-China relations, questions remain about whether the Americans will continue to back Marcos or look for an alternative leader who aligns with their strategic interests.

"“Nagbilin na ako, Ma’am. ‘Pag namatay ako, huwag ka tumigil hanggang hindi mo mapapatay sila. And then he said 'yes.''' (Ma'am, I've already left a directive. After I die, don't stop until you've killed them all. And then he said, "Yes.")– Sarah Duterte

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