Opinion: Marcos-Duterte rift and its toll on the Filipino people

The cracks in the once-celebrated Marcos-Duterte alliance have become glaring, exposing the vulnerabilities of a political partnership formed on convenience rather than enduring unity. What was initially hailed as the “Unity Ticket” bridging North and South has unraveled into a bitter power struggle, with far-reaching repercussions beyond the political arena.

This escalating rift has significant implications for governance, public trust, and the nation’s socio-economic stability. The infighting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Vice President Sara Duterte, and their respective allies in the House of Representatives is more than a clash of egos—it is a reflection of fragmented leadership that prioritizes personal interests over the country’s welfare.

Governance on Pause

The visible animosity distracts from policy-making and effective governance. Legislative processes are hampered, reforms stalled, and critical issues sidelined. This dysfunction undermines public institutions, eroding the people’s confidence in democracy. For a nation grappling with systemic challenges such as poverty, education deficits, and healthcare shortcomings, this political circus is an unacceptable luxury.

Instead of tackling these pressing issues, leaders are engrossed in finger-pointing, hurling accusations that further polarize an already divided nation. Criminal complaints and legal actions against Vice President Duterte and her aides exemplify how this discord has devolved into a tit-for-tat battle, testing the judiciary’s resilience and impartiality. While the courts wrestle with political cases, ordinary Filipinos struggle with real-life crises—rising inflation, unemployment, and insufficient public services.

Economic Consequences

The instability has repercussions on the economy as well. Investors, both domestic and foreign, thrive on predictability and stability—two qualities now glaringly absent in the Philippines’ political landscape. A divided leadership breeds inconsistent policies, particularly in critical sectors like trade, infrastructure, and social services, creating an environment of uncertainty. This could deter investments, stunting economic growth and leaving long-term damage to the nation’s development trajectory.

Social Polarization

Beyond governance and economics, this feud deepens societal divisions. The vitriol between the Marcos and Duterte camps has polarized the public, splitting loyalties and debates turning toxic. These rifts threaten the social fabric, fostering hatred among communities and political families. The risk of political polarization transforming into broader societal unrest cannot be underestimated.

Foreign Policy at Risk

The disunity also weakens the Philippines’ stance on international issues. Territorial disputes, trade negotiations, and global collaborations demand a cohesive and focused leadership. The current turmoil sends mixed signals to international partners, potentially jeopardizing the country’s position in global forums and bilateral relations.

The Call for Unity

At this critical juncture, leaders must remember that their mandate comes from the people, and their ultimate responsibility is to serve the public good. Instead of perpetuating personal vendettas, they should pivot toward collaboration and prioritize the nation’s welfare. The Filipino people deserve leaders who will rise above discord and deliver meaningful reforms, especially in areas where the country lags—poverty alleviation, education quality, healthcare accessibility, and job creation.

Leadership is not about self-preservation but nation-building. If the country’s top leaders continue to drag the public into their political battles, they risk alienating the very people who entrusted them with power. Unity, while elusive in the current climate, remains the only path forward. Without it, the Philippines risks spiraling into deeper political instability, economic stagnation, and social discontent.

The challenge is clear: for the nation to thrive, its leaders must put the people’s needs above their own, setting aside personal rivalries for the greater good. Anything less is a disservice to the Filipino people and a betrayal of the promises they were elected to uphold.