28-3-2025 (MANILA) Senator Imee Marcos has announced her departure from the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, citing fundamental disagreements over the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. The move has sent ripples through Manila’s political establishment.
Taking to social media, the Senator emphasised her commitment to national sovereignty and justice for all Filipinos, declaring these principles supersede any political allegiances. She expressed her intention to maintain an independent stance, noting the impossibility of sharing campaign platforms with other Alliance members given the stark divergence in their positions.
Malacanang Palace, through Undersecretary Claire Castro, adopted a measured response to the Senator’s exit. During a press briefing, Castro suggested that such a departure might indeed be beneficial, given the apparent misalignment between the Senator’s convictions and the coalition’s agenda.
The political development has sparked speculation about potential strain in the relationship between Senator Marcos and her younger brother, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Whilst the Senator’s public statements hint at possible tensions, the Palace has remained notably circumspect about the siblings’ personal dynamics.
When pressed about the President’s response to his sister’s attendance at a Maisug rally where former President Duterte spoke critically, Castro highlighted the President’s reputation for tolerance. She noted that despite the challenging circumstances, no public expression of resentment has emerged from either sibling.
The Palace spokesperson diplomatically sidestepped questions regarding whether the Senator’s departure represents a significant loss to the Alliance, deferring instead to campaign manager Congressman Toby Tiangco for the coalition’s official stance on the matter.
