As hunger rises, Marcos vs Duterte ‘fight to the finish’ risks Philippines’ stability

Analysts warn the bitter fight between the two powerful political clans could undermine efforts to address growing hunger and economic woes

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Cutouts of President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr (left) and Vice-President Sara Duterte (right) displayed during a protest in Metro Manila in July. Photo: EPA-EFE

Published: 11:00am, 21 Oct 2024Updated: 7:38pm, 22 Oct 2024

The escalating feud between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr and his estranged vice-president, Sara Duterte-Carpio, risks diverting the government’s focus from meeting the urgent needs of ordinary Filipinos, such as rising hunger, observers warn.

Duterte-Carpio, the daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte, launched a massive political attack against Marcos Jnr on Friday, belittling his presidential performance and making shocking comments about wishing to behead him at a public event. She even threatened to “dig up” his father’s bones and toss them into the sea if the political attacks against her family continued.

While the presidential palace declined to comment on her remarks, social media erupted with users labelling her “unhinged”, “crazy” and “dangerous’, and calling for her impeachment.

Analysts, however, interpreted her incendiary remarks as a strategic political manoeuvre, suggesting they reflect a deeper conflict between two powerful dynasties that could have far-reaching consequences for both the economy and the poor.

Philippines Vice-President Sara Duterte during a press conference at her office in Metro Manila on Friday. Photo: EPA-EFE

Duterte-Carpio’s media briefing was an effort to “project an image of strength” and signal her readiness to confront Marcos Jnr, according to Celso Santiago Jnr, a communication for development lecturer at Ateneo de Manila University.