Sara backs Imee; political line drawn

Vice President Sara Duterte has officially endorsed Senator Imee Marcos’ reelection bid in a significant shift in the political landscape ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

In a 30-second video shared on Senator Marcos' official social media platforms, Duterte expressed her concern over the worsening conditions in the country, particularly the rise in hunger and crime, which she described as plaguing the nation.

“Itim ngayon ang kulay ng bansa. Sa gutom at krimen nag luluksa (Black is now the color of the nation. In hunger and crime, it mourns),” Duterte said, painting a somber picture of the state of the nation and calling attention to the struggles many Filipinos are facing.

Senator Marcos joined her in the sentiment, claiming that the administration's political opponents, including those with differing views, were being persecuted.

“Ginigipit ang kaalyansa,” she said, implying that the administration is suppressing its critics and allies who do not conform to its policies.

Duterte’s endorsement carries substantial weight, considering her influential position in Philippine politics as the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Vice President’s statement also marked a shift in the country's political alliances, especially given Marcos’s recent break with the administration-backed coalition, Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas (APBP).

Marcos withdrew from the coalition last month, citing fundamental disagreements with the handling of national issues, including the controversial arrest of Duterte’s father by the International Criminal Court.

Marcos’ decision to leave APBP, a coalition closely aligned with her brother's administration, has created a political divide that could play a key role in shaping her chances in the upcoming elections.

Despite this, Duterte’s endorsement is viewed as a crucial move to maintain the Marcos family’s political relevance, especially after recent polls showed a notable decline in her popularity.