Senator Imee Marcos announced on Saturday, September 28, that she will not be running under the senatorial slate of her brother, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., in the upcoming elections. The senator announced a video posted on her official Facebook account.
Despite the offer from the President, Senator Marcos explained that her decision was motivated by a desire to avoid causing further complications for her brother’s administration. She expressed her gratitude for the President’s support and acknowledged the difficulties she has faced due to public scrutiny.
“Taus-puso ang aking pasasalamat kay Pangulong Bongbong na, sa kabila ng galit at labis na kalupitan ng ilan, ako’y pinagtanggol niya, at naisama pa sa alyansa,” she said in the video. Senator Marcos also emphasized that her choice to step aside was in part to ensure that her brother would not face unnecessary political challenges.
She further stated, “Minabuti kong tumindig mag-isa upang huwag nang malagay sa alanganin ang aking ading, para wag nang mag-alinlangan ang aking mga tunay na kaibigan,” underscoring her intent to take a stand independently, without compromising her relationships or putting her brother in a difficult position.
The announcement has sparked a wide range of reactions from political analysts and the public. Some see her decision as a strategic move to distance herself from the administration, while others believe it signals internal tensions within the Marcos political circle. Still, others have praised her for the show of independence and loyalty to her family.
The Marcos family has long been a dominant force in Philippine politics, with members occupying key positions in the government. Senator Imee Marcos, a known political veteran, has been a prominent figure in the Senate and has consistently been vocal on various national issues. Her decision not to run under her brother’s slate raises questions about the future of her political career and her potential role in the upcoming elections.
As the elections draw closer, the dynamics within political alliances continue to shift, and it remains to be seen how this development will affect both the Marcos family and their supporters.