Allies or Actors? Doubts Cast on Marcos-Duterte Alliance

Senator Imee Marcos

Allies or Actors? Doubts Cast on Marcos-Duterte Alliance

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationWeek.Com | July 28, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – The once-impregnable “UniTeam” alliance between Senator Imee Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte is facing growing skepticism, raising questions about the true nature of their partnership.

While Marcos publicly maintains her support for the Vice President, analysts and observers are increasingly asking: Is this a genuine alliance built on shared political goals, or a calculated performance designed to safeguard the Marcos family’s legacy amid shifting political tides?

The Marcos-Duterte union, forged ahead of the pivotal 2022 elections, proved to be a winning formula.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., leveraging Vice President Duterte’s immense popularity, secured a resounding victory.

Senator Marcos, playing a pivotal role in orchestrating the alliance, solidified the image of a unified front.

“Bongbong capitalized on the popularity of Inday Sara Duterte and secured the votes of the majority,” noted one political analyst, highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership.

However, less than a year into their respective terms, subtle fissures have begun to emerge in the facade of unity, prompting a deeper examination of Imee’s motivations.

The Imee Enigma: Loyalty, Legacy, or Political Gamesmanship?

Imee has consistently voiced her support for the Vice President since the election.

Yet, some believe this outward display of solidarity conceals a more calculated agenda.

Could her support for the Vice President be a strategic maneuver, deflecting potential criticisms aimed at her brother, President Marcos Jr.?

This theory gains credence when considering the senator’s long and influential history within the family’s formidable political machinery.

Known for her astute political instincts and pragmatism, she has consistently navigated complex situations with a carefully calibrated approach.

“She has always been a key strategist for the family,” explained one political analyst.

“Her current position allows her to subtly influence the political narrative, potentially shielding her brother from direct attacks by positioning herself as a staunch ally of a powerful figure.”

Controlled Dissent? Questioning the Marcos Facade

Adding another layer of intrigue is the occasional divergence between Imee’s public statements and the administration’s policies.

She has, at times, taken positions seemingly at odds with the administration’s stance, leading to speculation about a deliberate strategy of “controlled dissent.”

“Is she providing a safety valve for public discontent? Or is this a genuine expression of differing viewpoints within a powerful political dynasty?” questioned a political analyst.

This apparent willingness to deviate from the party line raises further questions about the true nature of her alliance with Duterte.

Is she genuinely aligned with the Vice President’s vision, or is she strategically positioning herself for future political maneuvering, potentially hedging her bets for a future political landscape?

Navigating a Shifting Political Landscape

The answers, shrouded in the complexities of Philippine politics, remain elusive.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, deciphering Imee’s true motivations will be crucial to understanding the future of the alliance.

Is she a sincere ally of Vice President Duterte, working towards shared objectives? Or is she playing a more intricate game, where loyalty is a fluid concept and the preservation of her family’s legacy takes precedence?

The coming months will undoubtedly provide further clues as the Philippines navigates its complex and ever-changing political terrain.