The emerging political alliance among Vice President Sara Duterte, former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, and Senator Imee Marcos is shaping up to be a significant development. This perceived coalition, while still in its very early stages, reflects a strategic convergence of diverse political backgrounds and ambitions.
The 2025 scenario, where VP Sara indirectly endorses Moreno’s candidacy for Manila mayor by attending his rally, is particularly intriguing. It may not only be a tactical move for the upcoming elections but also a prelude to what could unfold in 2028.
Last April 26, the Vice President shared the stage with Moreno, who is seeking a return to city hall. While she did not urge the people to vote for the former movie star, she referred to him as “our beloved mayor of the city of Manila.” During the event, Inday Sara expressed gratitude for allowing her team to campaign for her chosen senatorial candidates.
“I thank our beloved mayor of Manila, Isko Moreno Domagoso, for lending the stage and the microphone to the Duterte senatorial candidates,” Duterte said in Filipino during the proclamation rally for District 2 candidates of Yorme’s Choice party. Present at the rally was reelectionist Senator Imee Marcos, further solidifying the alliance’s public image.
There is always the speculation that VP Sara may aim for the presidency in 2028, and Isko will be a potential running mate. This possible tandem could leverage their combined appeal to capture votes across Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon. Duterte’s stronghold in Mindanao-Visayas and her father’s influence, paired with Moreno’s urban appeal and grassroots connection, create a formidable combination. He may have lost in the 2022 presidential election but there is no doubt that Isko’s effective governance in Manila during the COVID-19 pandemic has made him more popular.
Meanwhile, Senator Marcos, rumored to be gunning for the mayoralty race in Manila before she finally decided to seek reelection, adds another layer of complexity and intrigue to this emerging alliance. Should Imee win another term in the Senate, she will graduate in 2028, opening the possibility for her to finally run for Manila mayor. This move would allow her to maintain her political influence while stepping into a new role. Her potential candidacy for Manila mayor could also signify a strategic positioning within the alliance, ensuring that the Marcos name continues to hold sway in key political arenas.
But this early, their critics have also raised concerns about the ideological inconsistencies and potential conflicts of interest among the three. The Marcos family’s controversial history and Duterte’s divisive policies may alienate certain voter segments, while Moreno’s pragmatic approach might clash with the more traditional political strategies of his allies. Some people are already branding theirs as an “unholy” alliance.
This evolving partnership is an intriguing development that warrants close observation. Whether or not it will last until 2028 remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the emerging alliance among Moreno, Duterte, and Marcos has the potential to change the political landscape in the coming years.
However, both VP Sara and Senator Imee face significant hurdles that could impact the triumvirate’s trajectory. Duterte must first overcome the impeachment proceedings against her. If convicted, she will forever be barred from running for any political office. Similarly, Marcos must first secure her reelection to the Senate in next month’s polls. These challenges add an element of suspense and uncertainty to their plans, as everything for now will depend on the outcomes of next month’s elections.
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