Down, but not out: Philippines election gifts Sara Duterte a shot at political survival


MANILA (Reuters): A Philippine midterm election may have leaned in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's favour but the stronger-than-expected showing for estranged vice president and bitter rival Sara Duterte may have given him a jolt, with the possibility of a shift in the balance of power in the rest of his term.

Despite surveys predicting the president's allies would sweep the Senate election, Duterte gained an important foothold in the high-profile chamber that could ensure she survives a concerted effort by Marcos loyalists to banish her from politics via impeachment and deny her a presidential run in 2028. 

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Aseanplus News

Woman ordered to pay S$975,000 in costs to two Singapore hospitals after losing suit over amputation of mum’s leg
Two probable causes behind Thailand's Rama II crane collapse: carelessness likely
16 weeks’ jail for man who smuggled five Pomeranian puppies from Malaysia into Singapore in car boot
Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Friday (Jan 16, 2026)
North China farmers pay heavy price this winter for Beijing’s clean air success
China, Canada reach 'landmark' deal on tariffs, visas
UK teenager who praised Southport murderer jailed for possessing al Qaeda manual
Local actress Nadia Kesuma reported missing after arriving in Jeddah
Bukit Aman to follow PM's freeze directive, says IGP
Malaysiakini editor meets Umno leaders on AGM sidelines, apologises for social media blunder

Others Also Read