Metro Manila, Philippines – After skipping the administration’s senate lineup reveal, reelectionist Senator Imee Marcos disassociated herself from her brother’s slate, saying she will “stand alone” for the 2025 midterm race.
In a video statement released on Sept. 28, Imee thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for including her in the administration’s coalition – “Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas” (Alliance for a New Philippines). The alliance is composed of five major political parties, namely the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), National Unity Party (NUP), Lakas Christian-Muslim Democrats (Lakas), and the Nacionalista Party (NP).
The senator, however, said she is choosing to “stand alone” so her brother will “no longer be put in a difficult situation”.
Imee also looked back on the “legacy” of her father Ferdinand Marcos Sr., whose death anniversary is commemorated on the same day the senator released her statement.
“As his eldest, I choose to stand free and firm, like him; in believing that there should be no allegiance but to the Filipino people,” the lawmaker said.
“I choose to remain free and loyal—not to any group, but to every Filipino,” she added.
Imee was a no-show when the President unveiled his Senate bets on Thursday, Sept. 26. Marcos said her sister was already busy “campaigning” – even though the official campaign period has yet to begin.
READ: The administration Senate slate: rivals, reelectionists, returnees
In a statement, the administration’s alliance said it will continue to support Imee in her election bid.
“Malaki ang respeto at paghanga natin kay Sen. Imee Marcos, lalo na sa kanyang mga adbokasiya at track record sa serbisyo publiko. Naniniwala ang Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas sa kakayahan niyang maglingkod nang tapat sa mga Pilipino,” Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, the coalition’s campaign manager, said.
[Translation: We have great respect and admiration for Sen. Imee Marcos, especially for her advocacy and track record in public service. The alliance believes in her ability to serve the Filipino people with integrity]
The filing of Certificate of Candidacy runs from Oct. 1 to 8. The midterm polls are set on May 12, 2025.
