Philippines: The shadow of the Marcos clan hangs over Monday’s presidential election











Photo credit © Reuters


by Karen Lema

MANILA (Reuters) – Filipino voters head to the polls on Monday for a presidential election pitting the late dictator’s son and namesake Ferdinand Marcos against human rights lawyer Leni Robredo, who narrowly beat him in a the vice-presidential race in 2016.

According to opinion polls, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr has a comfortable lead over his rivals, capable of turning the tide against Vice President Leni Robredo, who comes second in voting intentions.

A victory for Ferdinand Marcos Jr, 64, who maintained his lead while largely avoiding debates with the main candidates, would complete the family image, 36 years after a popular uprising toppled his father and pushed his family to exile.

Leni Robredo, 57 and the only woman among ten presidential candidates, describes the 1986 uprising as her political awakening. She says she is confident of the election and her campaign, based on the promise of open government, appears to have gained momentum in recent weeks, drawing large crowds to her rallies.

Other candidates for president include former boxing champion Manny Pacquiao, Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso and Senator Panfilo Lacson, although far behind in the polls.

The outgoing president, Rodrigo Duterte, has not given his support to any candidate but his political party has decided to line up behind Ferdinand Marcos Jr, and his daughter, Sara Duterte-Carpio, serves as running mate.

(French version Kate Entringer)










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