In the midst of the 2022 elections in the Philippines, the Uniteam, the political alliance between Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte, is showing signs of strain. While both parties have maintained a good relationship, Senator Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos, the Chief Executive’s older sister, revealed that there are cracks within the Uniteam. This revelation raises questions about the dynamics between the Marcoses and the Dutertes.
When asked about the state of their relationship, Senator Marcos acknowledged the existence of divisions within the Uniteam. She stated in Filipino during a press conference, “I think there are really cracks in the Uniteam. But I think that the principals are not unruly.” While she did not elaborate on the nature of these cracks, her statement suggests that there are internal challenges within the alliance.
Senator Marcos went on to describe those causing trouble within the Uniteam as “the ones who are unruly… the demons and snakes in the fringes of the Palace.” This cryptic remark hints at the presence of individuals or factions that may be undermining the unity and stability of the alliance.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Vice President Sara Duterte, in a Facebook post on January 29, defended her brother, Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, and attributed his remarks to “brotherly love coupled by the common sentiment that I do not deserve the despicable treatment that I am receiving from some sectors within the circle of the President.” This statement implies that there may be factions within the President’s circle that are causing tension between the Duterte siblings.
Furthermore, Senator Marcos chose not to take sides in the escalating conflict between her brother, the President, and former president Rodrigo Duterte, as they accuse each other of drug abuse. This decision to remain neutral indicates that the senator is aware of the potential consequences of aligning herself with either party and seeks to maintain a sense of impartiality.
Understanding the intricacies of Filipino politics requires familiarity with the local context. The Marcoses and the Dutertes are two prominent political families in the Philippines. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the son of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, has been a senator and a presidential candidate. Sara Duterte, the daughter of President Rodrigo Duterte, has served as the mayor of Davao City and is considered a potential presidential candidate in the future.
The Uniteam, the alliance between the Marcoses and the Dutertes, was formed during the 2022 elections. This political alliance aimed to consolidate support and strengthen their chances of success. However, the cracks within the Uniteam suggest that there may be differing priorities or conflicts of interest within the alliance.
The revelations made by Senator Marcos shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by political alliances. While maintaining a good relationship on the surface, underlying tensions can arise that threaten the unity and stability of the alliance. These tensions may be fueled by external factors, such as conflicting interests or the influence of other individuals within the political landscape.
As the political landscape in the Philippines continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the cracks within the Uniteam will impact the future of the Marcos-Duterte alliance. Will these divisions lead to a reevaluation of political strategies and alliances? Only time will tell.
Source: The Manila Times
