Overview

• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has made Philippine sovereignty in the South China Sea a central campaign theme, contrasting his assertive stance with predecessor Rodrigo Duterte's conciliatory China policy.
• The Senate race will determine the chamber's control, directly impacting Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial set for July on charges including alleged threats against Marcos.
• Marcos has highlighted economic achievements, including regional growth leadership and reduced inflation, as part of his final campaign push for Senate candidates.
• Disinformation concerns have intensified, with allegations of Chinese state-sponsored influence and nearly half of election-related social media discussions linked to inauthentic accounts.
• The breakdown of the Marcos-Duterte alliance has heightened political tensions, with both camps vying for Senate dominance to shape the remaining years of Marcos's term and influence the 2028 presidential election.