Millions of Filipinos headed to polling stations on Monday for midterm elections that could shift the country’s political landscape.
Voters cast their ballots to fill half the Senate’s seats and thousands of local government positions. The vote comes at a moment of political turmoil, with the fate of Vice President Sara Duterte hanging in the balance following her impeachment in February.
Security was a top priority as over 160,000 police personnel were deployed across the nation. The Philippines has a long history of election-related violence, especially in provinces where contests for local power are fierce. Authorities have already recorded more than 80 incidents linked to political conflict this election season, some resulting in deaths. Steps were taken to remove police officials in areas where an election officer was recently killed, a move that speaks to the ongoing concerns over safety during the polls.
The vote is also a test of power between President Ferdinand Marcos and the Duterte family, once allies, now bitter political opponents. The rift deepened after Sara Duterte’s impeachment and her father Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest, which led to his transfer to the International Criminal Court over past allegations during his presidency. The Senate, half of which is being elected in this vote, will eventually hold a trial that could decide whether Sara Duterte is permanently removed from public life. The results could shift the balance in that process.
Several Senate candidates have emerged as top contenders, including personalities from entertainment and politics. Many have received endorsements from either the Marcos or Duterte camps, turning the Senate race into a broader referendum on their influence. Even the president’s sister is among the candidates, aligning herself with the Duterte side. This division makes the race more than just a typical midterm—it could shape the political options for the 2028 presidential election.
The outcome could also affect the power dynamics in Mindanao, a region that has long been a stronghold of the Duterte family. With Rodrigo Duterte now removed from political activity and Sara Duterte’s future uncertain, there are growing questions about who might take control in the south if their grip weakens. Observers suggest that their decline could open the door to new political players.
Despite the drama, public approval for President Marcos has taken a downturn. A recent survey shows that support for his leadership has dropped significantly. Analysts say that the administration has struggled to deliver clear achievements. While the government tried to make tensions with China over the South China Sea a key campaign issue, many voters seem more concerned with daily challenges such as inflation and unemployment.
Voting in the capital was calm, with voters lining up in air-conditioned malls. But in rural areas, tension remained high. The memory of past violent elections, especially in Mindanao, continues to haunt these communities. Although officials claim this year’s violence is less severe than in the past, the atmosphere remains uneasy.
As votes are counted, the political future of key figures hangs in the balance. For President Marcos, the results could either strengthen his grip or further weaken his standing. For the Dutertes, it may be the beginning of the end of their hold on national politics. What happens next depends on who wins control—not just of seats, but of the country’s shifting loyalties.