Political chess game unfolds

Despite their avowals that they have no intentions of running for the highest position in the land, Vice President Sara Duterte and House Speaker Martin Romualdez can't seem to get out of their usual suspects' role in the runup to the 2028 presidential elections.

The unfolding intramurals between the erstwhile major characters in the highly successful UniTeam of 2022 reflect the complex interplay of personalities, ambitions, and alliances in the political landscape akin to a strategic chess game with players maneuvering for position and power.

The UniTeam alliance, a political force formed by the union of Bongbong Marcos, scion of the Marcos-Romualdez dynasty, and Sara Duterte, daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte, captured the imagination of many Filipinos. The alliance, seemingly forged to consolidate political power and appeal to a broad voter base, however, has faced internal challenges that threaten its cohesion.

At the heart of the matter lies the question of leadership. Both Marcos and Sara command significant political followings, and the dynamics of their partnership have sparked speculation about who would be the standard-bearer in the 2028 elections. The struggle for dominance within the UniTeam has led to internal discord, with factions aligning themselves with either the Marcos/Romualdez or Duterte camp, intensifying the already intricate political landscape.

Romualdez, cousin of the incumbent, has emerged as a key player in the unfolding drama. Widely regarded as a potential presidential candidate in 2028, Romualdez's ambitions have put him in a delicate position within the UniTeam alliance. As the dynamics shift, Romualdez must carefully navigate the political waters to maintain influence and secure his position as a formidable contender.

Romualdez's strategic maneuvers have not been without controversy. His alleged ambition to vie for the presidency in 2028 has raised eyebrows within the UniTeam alliance, speculating a possible rift with Sara, whom he even endorsed heavily at the height of the 2022 campaign.

As Romualdez seeks to strengthen his political standing, he must tread carefully to avoid alienating key figures within the alliance while simultaneously positioning himself as a viable presidential candidate.

Former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, a political veteran with a wealth of experience, has added another layer of complexity to the unfolding scenarios. Serving as an adviser to Sara Duterte, Arroyo's influence is undeniable. However, her removal from the position of Deputy Speaker by Romualdez has created tension within political circles.

The ousting of Arroyo from a key leadership role and Sara's resignation from the Lakas-CMD party reflect the power struggle within the alliance. It also underscores the challenges faced by those seeking to assert their influence in the lead-up to the 2028 elections. Despite her recent setback, Arroyo's position as an influential political figure serves as a reminder of the intricate alliances and rivalries that shape the landscape of Philippine politics.

Fingers were pointed at Romualdez when the House decided to strip the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, which she heads, of the controversial confidential funds that were then transferred to the agencies handling the West Philippine Sea issue.

The Congress hearing that ensued so infuriated Sara's father that he directed his guns at the House, challenging the leadership to declare how the so-called people's money has been spent.

He also insinuated that a brewing military action could happen should the House leadership insist on ousting the Vice President through an impeachment hatched by several members. No less than President Marcos himself came to the rescue of his Vice President, assuring everybody that she doesn't deserve to be impeached.

And what about the statement of Imee Marcos, the President's sister, that she would stand by the older Duterte even if he's the only one left in his PDP Laban party following the exodus of its members?

It sure adds more charcoal to the fire, with analysts alleging that the eldest of the Marcos siblings is casting a moist eye on the vice presidency.

As the players jockey for position on the political chessboard, it remains to be seen how the intramurals within the UniTeam alliance will unfold. The delicate balance of power, shifting alliances, and individual ambitions will continue to shape the political narrative leading up to the 2028 elections.

As the chess pieces move, alliances shift, and ambitions collide, the nation is left waiting with bated breath as this political chess game unfolds.

E-mail: mannyangeles27@gmail.com