Marcos Courts Metro Manila Votes, Takes Subtle Dig at Duterte
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos jr. launched a meaningful campaign rally in Metro Manila on tuesday, showcasing the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas coalition’s 12 senatorial candidates.The event served as a platform not only to promote the candidates but also to subtly contrast the management’s approach with that of his predecessor, former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Marcos began his speech by emphasizing the completeness of the administration’s ticket, stating, Please allow me adn I’m just counting our candidates because I’m making sure that they are complete and that no one has been hit by a grenade,
a clear reference to Duterte’s controversial remarks about eliminating senators to make room for his preferred candidates. This veiled criticism highlighted a key difference in campaign strategies.
The President further differentiated his approach from Duterte’s, asserting that the Alyansa candidates where not resorting to intimidation or inflammatory language. You won’t hear anything like that. That’s what makes Alyansa different from all the other candidates running in this election,
Marcos declared. You won’t hear them utter profanity.You won’t hear threats. You won’t hear them swear.
This emphasis on a clean, respectful campaign stands in stark contrast to the frequently abrasive rhetoric of previous political campaigns in the Philippines.
The Alyansa slate includes a diverse group of candidates: incumbent House Representatives Erwin Tulfo and Camille Villar; reelectionist senators Francis Tolentino, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Pia Cayetano, and Imee Marcos; Makati city Mayor Abby Binay; former senators Manny Pacquiao, Ping Lacson, and Tito Sotto (former Senate President); and former Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. Marcos highlighted their experience and qualifications, arguing that their past government service makes them uniquely suited for the Senate.
Marcos underscored the Alyansa’s commitment to progress and peaceful solutions, contrasting it with more aggressive approaches. Fellowmen, the direction of the alyansa is very clear in their speeches and aspirations for the country. It is indeed indeed progress,not fighting or oppression. What we need is progress, not threats or shouting,
he stated.And what we need is solution, not heated rhetoric that are senseless.
This focus on progress and solutions is a central theme of the administration’s platform.
The President further emphasized the Alyansa’s alignment with his administration’s priorities,including protecting national sovereignty through diplomacy and rejecting violent solutions to social problems. We have no belief that the solution is to kill thousands of Filipinos. There is a right way to ensure peace and order —and that is through sound laws, effective enforcement, and strong support for our police and local governments,
Marcos stated, directly addressing the controversial “war on drugs.” He also voiced opposition to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), citing their association with crime and violence.
regarding economic policy, Marcos stressed the need for sustainable job creation rather than reliance on possibly problematic industries. In [the] economy and jobs,we do not need to rely on industries like POGO which became a center of crime and violence. The solutions are real jobs, decent pay, and support for small businesses and those in need,
he explained. This reflects a broader shift towards sustainable and ethical economic growth.
The Pasay City rally marked the culmination of the alyansa’s campaign kickoffs, setting the stage for a nationwide push ahead of the May midterm elections. Metro Manila, with its 7.32 million registered voters, is a crucial battleground, and Marcos’s strong showing in the area during the 2022 presidential race (3.26 million votes) underscores its importance.
Marcos’ Subtle Critique Marks a New Direction in Philippine Politics
Senior Editor: In his recent rally in Metro Manila, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.took subtle jabs at his predecessor,former President Rodrigo duterte,while emphasizing a progressive approach. How significant is this shift in campaign strategy for philippine politics?
Expert: The shift is highly significant,marking a clear demarcation in political strategy and public discourse. President Marcos has chosen to steer away from the combative and frequently enough controversial methods of the past. By subtly referencing incidents from Duterte’s term,like the infamous grenade remarks,Marcos underscores a preference for a more diplomatic and inclusive political habitat. This approach is not just about pointing out differences; it signals a commitment to civil discourse and a push against the abrasive rhetoric that has characterized recent political exchanges. This shift could perhaps redefine the expectations for political behavior and campaign strategies in the Philippines.
Senior Editor: Marcos emphasized a slate of experienced candidates under the “Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas.” How dose their background potentially impact their roles in the Senate?
Expert: The experience brought by the Alyansa candidates is pivotal. With seasoned politicians such as senators and former senators like Manny Pacquiao and Ping Lacson, the potential for informed policymaking is considerable. Their government service provides them with a nuanced understanding of legislative processes, which can translate into effective legislation and governance. Moreover, their alignment with Marcos’ vision indicates a focused approach toward addressing national issues with a mixture of progress and stability. These candidates’ experience, when coupled with their public service ethos, suggests they could be instrumental in steering significant reforms and alliances within the Senate.
Senior Editor: Marcos highlighted a commitment to peaceful solutions over aggression, especially regarding the “war on drugs.” How does this stance reflect a broader change in policy focus?
Expert: By advocating for peace and order thru sound laws and supportive enforcement systems, Marcos is indicating a departure from Duterte’s “war on drugs,” which was highly contentious due to reported human rights issues. This reflects a broader shift towards human-centered policies focusing on rehabilitation and community support rather than punitive measures. It also aligns with global best practices in drug policy,emphasizing public health approaches over strictly law enforcement methods. Such a stance could lead to more sustainable and humane solutions to drug-related problems, thereby reducing societal violence and fostering inclusive community growth.
Senior Editor: Economic policy under Marcos seems to focus on sustainable job creation rather than controversial industries like POGO.What are the implications for the Philippine economy?
Expert: Shifting focus from POGOs to sustainable job creation marks a significant pivot in economic strategy.POGOs, while lucrative, have been linked to various social issues, including criminal activities. By pivoting towards real job opportunities,sustainable industries,and support for small businesses,the management can foster a healthier and more stable economic environment.This approach could facilitate long-term economic resilience, reduce dependency on morally and legally contentious industries, and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. Over time, this could lead to a more diversified and robust economy, which is less vulnerable to fluctuations in volatile sectors.
Senior editor: How crucial is Metro Manila’s voting population in shaping the outcomes of these political strategies?
Expert: Metro Manila’s voting population is crucial, given its large voter base of 7.32 million registered voters. The urban center serves as both a political bellwether and a significant influencer in national elections. Marcos’ strong performance in this region during the 2022 presidential election highlights its importance. A successful campaign in Metro Manila can solidify political momentum, providing critical support for policy initiatives and legislative agendas. In essence, winning the favor of Metro manila voters could be pivotal for the success of both the current administration and its broader political objectives.
Final Thought: President marcos’ strategic pivot could redefine the political narrative in the Philippines, focusing on peace, sustainable growth, and inclusive progress. How do you think this new approach will shape the future of Philippine politics, and what are your thoughts on these developments? Share your insights in the comments below or join the discussion on social media using #NewPhilippinePolitics.