Political Dynasties Tighten Grip as Voters Overlook Past Abuses.

MAY 17,2025

Philippines — The results of the 2025 midterm elections paint a sobering picture: despite scandals, controversies, and past abuses, political dynasties continue to dominate Philippine politics — proving yet again how deeply rooted these families are in the country’s democratic system.

Dr. Cleo Anne Calimbahin, a political science professor and expert on elections, corruption, and democracy, unpacked the implications of the May 2025 elections during a post-election forum in Cebu City. Her insights shed light on why political dynasties in the Philippines still thrive — and why voter forgetfulness may be enabling it.

“The Marcos return to politics shows that Filipino voters can forget even the most severe human rights abuses. The loyalty of voters to powerful families remains unwavering, no matter the past,” said Calimbahin.

Political Dynasties Still Rule Despite Scandals

While a few reformist candidates secured wins, the broader trend of the 2025 Philippine midterm elections revealed an entrenched reality — that democracy in the Philippines remains vulnerable to manipulation by powerful clans, weak political parties, and vague campaign promises.

“We finally saw some variation in outcomes,” she said, “but it’s still largely a showdown between long-standing political families.”

Calimbahin emphasized that while incumbency provides clear advantages, voters often find themselves choosing between the lesser of two dynasties — rather than real change agents. This was apparent in the high-profile rivalry between the Marcos and Duterte camps, which dominated headlines but ultimately resulted in both clans expanding their influence.

“The Duterte family remains a dynasty undiminished — five members won seats this election,” Calimbahin added.

Political Dynasties the Marcos-Duterte Feud: Familiar Faces, Familiar Tactics

Even amid public disagreements and clashes between the Marcos and Duterte camps, both factions relied on similar strategies: massive political ad spending, vague or recycled platforms, loyal voter bases, and an underdeveloped party system.

“Unity? We’ve heard this before. It’s a ghost from the elections past,” Calimbahin said, referencing the recycled rhetoric of the 2022 Marcos-Duterte tandem that reappeared in 2025.

Cebu Politics: Old Bloodlines Still Strong

In Cebu, the dominance of political families like the Garcias, Osmeñas, and Ramas continues to mirror national patterns. Bloodlines remain a powerful force in shaping local election results in Cebu.

Still, glimmers of change have emerged. Newly elected Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, a long-time opposition figure and environmentalist, defied the odds. But analysts believe the system he steps into will test his reform agenda at every turn.

Weak Political Education and Lack of Accountability

Calimbahin also noted systemic flaws in the electoral process, including vote-buying, murky funding sources, and the absence of solid accountability mechanisms.

“There are platforms and campaigns with good digital messaging,” she said, “but many of these are double-edged swords — built on personality politics rather than long-term reform.”

The professor underscored the need for Filipino voters to demand more than just catchy slogans. Political accountability in the Philippines, she said, must go beyond election season.

Beyond 2025: What Comes Next for Philippine Democracy

With the 2028 presidential elections in the Philippines on the horizon, Calimbahin urged Filipinos to look beyond campaign drama and focus on building stronger institutions and civic education.

“Elections are important, yes — but democracy also thrives on engaged citizens who hold leaders accountable,” she said.

Without sustained pressure and grassroots engagement, even the most promising reformist wins will remain symbolic.

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