MANILA – Sen. Imee Marcos clarified on Monday that she will seek reelection independently, choosing not to align herself with the Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas—the coalition endorsed by her brother, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and backed by the country’s major political parties.
President Marcos Jr. expressed respect for his sister’s decision, reassuring that the administration alliance remains supportive of her. He added that she is welcome to join their campaign activities and rallies.
During a press conference at the Senate, Sen. Marcos addressed questions regarding her plans for the upcoming elections, amidst speculation that she was withdrawing from the race. She clarified that her decision was meant to signal that she does not wish to be involved in the division between the Marcos and Duterte factions, which once formed the now-dissolved UniTeam alliance in the 2022 elections.
Identified as closer to the Duterte side, Sen. Marcos stated her intention to serve as a bridge between the two camps.
“It’s a tremendous sacrifice to stand alone, but I need to be free to cross the line to talk to all parties and to get things done,” Marcos said.
“Uniteam was a dream that I shared in 2022, and I hold fast to that dream of unity for all Filipinos,” she added.
While she is open to attending campaign rallies for the administration slate, she expressed concern that doing so could lead to negative repercussions for her allies, particularly those who have helped her in the past.
Marcos reiterated her desire to remain neutral in the ongoing tensions between her family and the Dutertes.
“Of course, what I want is for them to reconcile and talk, and I hope to be the bridge for that… I have to stand alone to do what’s right, without choosing sides and without further conflicts,” she said.
Marcos dismissed rumors of a rift between her and President Marcos Jr., emphasizing that their bond remains strong and that there is no animosity between them.
“The truth is, we all love Bongbong. He has always been the kindest among us, and as the only son and my younger brother, we’ve never had any disagreements,” she said.
She also clarified that their children will not run against each other in Ilocos Norte, dispelling rumors of political rivalry within the family.
“Sandro is seeking reelection, and Matt is seeking reelection as well. They hold different positions,” Marcos said, referring to Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos (President Marcos’ son) and her own son, Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc.
While Sen. Marcos vowed not to attack her brother directly, she said that some of those around him would not be spared from criticism.
Her decision to remain independent saddened their mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, she shared.
Lastly, Sen. Marcos mentioned that she would still consult with her political party, the Nacionalista Party, led by Sen. Cynthia Villar, which is part of the administration coalition.