Overview

• The May 12 midterm elections will fill 317 House seats, 12 Senate seats, and thousands of local positions, shaping the balance of power in the Philippines.
• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. seeks a pro-administration Senate majority to advance his economic reforms, including measures to address inflation and budget deficits.
• Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio’s July impeachment trial hinges on Senate composition, with her removal potentially barring her from future office.
• Voter concerns over high inflation and food prices dominate campaigns, while candidates offer limited policy specifics and rely on personal popularity.
• National security officials warn of suspected Chinese election meddling and escalating maritime tensions in the South China Sea.