As the Philippines gears up for the 2025 elections, the Duterte family is once again positioning itself for a significant role in the country’s political landscape. Former President Rodrigo Duterte, his daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio, and two sons, Paolo and Sebastian Duterte, are all preparing to bid for power. Their intentions, however, have raised questions about the Duterte family’s motivations and the possible consequences for the nation.
A Fragile Alliance with Marcos Jr.
When Rodrigo Duterte handed the presidency to Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in 2022, the two controversial political dynasties formed an uneasy alliance. Sara Duterte-Carpio, Rodrigo’s daughter, was elected Vice President on Marcos Jr.’s ticket, further cementing the partnership. However, this alliance has since shown signs of strain, particularly as Duterte-Carpio’s ambitions for the presidency become more evident.
Despite these tensions, Duterte-Carpio continues to navigate the political arena, juggling her role as Vice President while planning for future positions. Recently, she stepped down as Education Secretary, a move widely interpreted as preparation for a presidential bid in 2028. Whether she will challenge Marcos Jr. directly or if her younger brother, Sebastian Duterte, will be the family’s candidate for the highest office.
The Duterte Family’s Senate Ambitions
The Duterte family is not limiting its focus to the presidency. In an unexpected announcement, Sara Duterte-Carpio revealed that her father, Rodrigo, and two brothers, Paolo and Sebastian, plan to run for the Senate in the 2025 elections. If successful, the Dutertes would gain significant influence in the legislative branch, controlling three out of 24 Senate seats.
This potential power grab has drawn scrutiny, especially as the country’s constitution technically prohibits political dynasties. However, enforcement of this rule has been weak, allowing influential families like the Dutertes to continue dominating both local and national elections. The possibility of multiple Dutertes in the Senate highlights how entrenched political dynasties have become in the Philippines.
A Shift in Philippine Politics
The Dutertes’ return to the political spotlight comes as Marcos Jr. faces declining approval ratings, exacerbated by economic challenges such as rising inflation. Rodrigo Duterte has taken this opportunity to distance himself from Marcos Jr., criticizing his administration for its foreign policy, particularly in relation to China. This shift has fueled speculation that the Dutertes see an opening to regain power, capitalizing on their enduring popularity.
While Rodrigo Duterte’s presidency drew international condemnation for his human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings during the drug war, many Filipinos continue to support his hardline approach to crime. His down-to-earth persona resonated with voters, allowing him to leave office as one of the most popular leaders in Southeast Asia. With the 2025 elections on the horizon, the family aims to leverage that popularity to secure a foothold in the Senate.
Political Dynasties in the Philippines
Political dynasties have long been a fixture of Philippine politics, with the Duterte family exemplifying the concentration of power within a few influential families. Although dynasties are technically prohibited by law, the lack of enforcement has allowed families like the Dutertes to flourish. This has resulted in a political environment where familial ties often outweigh merit, hindering the development of a more inclusive and democratic system.
For critics, the potential rise of multiple Dutertes in the Senate threatens political diversity and accountability. The family’s presence in both the legislative and executive branches could give them unprecedented control over the country’s political future. Additionally, having family members in key positions could serve to protect Rodrigo Duterte from legal scrutiny related to his controversial presidency.
The Road to 2025
As the 2025 elections approach, the Duterte family’s ambitions remain fluid. While Sara Duterte-Carpio has confirmed her family’s plans, the final decisions may not be set in stone until official filings occur in October. The Duterte family has a history of sudden political shifts, and their ultimate strategy will likely depend on the political landscape as the election nears.
The Dutertes’ maneuvering for power has kept political analysts and voters alike on edge. The stakes are high, not only for the family but also for the future direction of the Philippines. Whether or not the Duterte family succeeds in securing their desired posts, their influence on Philippine politics shows no signs of waning.