Not only among ASEAN countries, but among all nations of the world. And indeed, a global shame, for all of us, the electorate.

And behold! What the world says, in general, about the “Duterte & Marcos Political Brawl!” ---- viral almost every day during Marcos Jr.’s administration:

As of early 2026, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has been navigating a complex, often volatile, political landscape, marked by a strong effort to drive economic modernization alongside a sharp decline in his popularity following intense political fighting with the Duterte clan.

His administration, which started with a “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) campaign, is focused on digital transformation, infrastructure development, and a “Build Better More” agenda.

Political Standing and Leadership (2025-2026)

1. Approval Ratings Crisis: After enjoying high trust ratings in 2025 (reading 60-64 percent in some surveys), Marcos Jr.’s popularity plummeted by late 2025. Surveys by WR Numero and Pulse Asia in 2025 showed his approval rating dropping to around 21-34 percent, while his disapproval rating reached discouraging levels, reflecting deep discontent following his public breakup with Vice President Sara Duterte and the resulting political instability.

2. Political Conflict. His administration is characterized by a “bitter brawl” with the Duterte clan, resulting in a fractured condition, with the House of Representatives impeaching Sara Duterte in 2025 over allegations of fund misappropriation.

3. International Relations: He has maintained a pro-Western pivot, focusing on deepening security and trade ties with the United States and Japan, which is seen as crucial for national security and economic stability.

4. Focus on Governance: Despite low ratings, his administration claims to be focused on “discipline, confidence, and a shared commitment to the nation’s program,” aiming to transition from symbolic action to tangible, long-term development.

Economic Development and Policies (2025-2026)

1. Economy and Infrastructure: Marcos Jr. has directed a “Build Better More” program to enhance infrastructure, aiming to turn the Philippines into a “Trillion-dollar economy” by 2030. In 2025, his administration claimed that unemployment dropped to a 20-year low and that inflation eased, despite global economic challenges.

2. Economic Strategy: The administration has emphasized digitalization, agricultural modernization, and attracting foreign investments.

3. Budget Management: Marcos Jr. is actively involved in ensuring “shovel-ready” projects, closely reviewing the 2026 national budget, which is a record P6.793 trillion to closely align it with the developmental goals.

4. Challenges: Despite his efforts, the economy saw a slowdown in the third quarter of 2025, with a weakening peso and, as of early 2026, he is facing challenges with corruption allegations in his administration’s projects.

Key Areas of Focus in 2026

1. ASEAN Leadership: Marcos is utilizing the 2026 Philippine ASEAN chairmanship to bolster the country’s economic influence in the region.

2. Social Program: His administration is pushing for a “people-centered” agenda, implementing the P20-rice program in some areas, and enhancing social services such as housing and education, including a record budget for the Department of Education.

3. Sustainability: He has committed to addressing climate change and promoting green and sustainable development.

In summary, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is acting as a pro-investment, digitally-driven, pro-Western leader who has successfully steered the economy in terms of growth, but his political authority is facing significant challenges due to his falling popularity and the deep political divisions.

Email: arturobesana2@gmail.com