Sara Duterte, the Vice President of the Philippines, expressed her frustration during a news conference on Friday, responding to accusations of corruption in Congress that she perceives as a political attack from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. In a two-hour address, she criticized Marcos, stating her desire to sever ties with him and invoking his father's legacy in her remarks.
Marcos has remained largely silent regarding the fallout with Duterte, who resigned from his cabinet in June. His spokesperson indicated that the president would not comment on her recent statements.
The political alliance between Duterte and Marcos, which was formed under the banner of national unity during the 2022 elections, has deteriorated significantly. Their partnership was expected to be powerful due to their respective political strongholds in the Philippines, but differing views on foreign policy, particularly regarding the United States and China, have contributed to their rift.
Political analysts suggest that the inability to reconcile their positions on foreign relations has been a critical factor in the breakdown of their alliance. Marcos views the U.S. as a key ally against China's assertiveness, while Duterte has remained silent on tensions with China, reflecting her father's pro-Beijing stance.
The split has also intensified scrutiny of former President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial drug war, which resulted in an estimated 30,000 deaths. The current administration is reopening investigations into these incidents, raising concerns about potential legal repercussions for the former president.
Speculation surrounds Sara Duterte's political future, as she is expected to run for president in the 2028 elections. However, her popularity has declined amid the conflict with Marcos, and there are rumors of possible impeachment proceedings against her.
The ongoing infighting between the two political families has hindered the government's ability to address pressing issues such as unemployment and poverty. The upcoming midterm elections are anticipated to serve as a battleground for the two clans.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez is leading an inquiry into the Duterte administration, focusing on extrajudicial killings and the implications of its pro-China policies. Recent allegations against Duterte have further fueled the controversy, including claims of financial misconduct related to drug-related killings.
The relationship between the two political dynasties has been strained since the election, with early signs of friction emerging over cabinet appointments and political maneuvering. The situation escalated following the removal of a key ally of Duterte, which she publicly condemned.
As tensions continue to rise, both sides appear entrenched in their positions, with little indication that reconciliation is possible. Marcos expressed disappointment over Duterte's assertion that they were never friends, highlighting the deepening divide between their factions.