Proclamation Speech Snub: Imee Thanks Duterte, Sara—Omits Bongbong

MAY 17,2025

MANILA, Philippines — Reelected Senator Imee Marcos made headlines once again—this time for what she didn’t say.

During her proclamation as one of the winners of the 2025 senatorial elections, Marcos raised eyebrows when she failed to mention her brother, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., in her victory speech. Instead, she expressed heartfelt gratitude to their 96-year-old mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos, and her children who were present at the event.

But it wasn’t just family who earned her public praise.

“Kay Presidente Duterte, ang ating dating Pangulo na Oktubre pa lamang itinaas na ang aking kamay, at sa kanyang anak na hanggang sa huling sandali si VP Inday Sara ay ako’y kinakampanya,” Imee said.

(I thank former President Rodrigo Duterte, who endorsed me as early as October, and Vice President Sara Duterte, who campaigned for me until the very end.)

Imee, who clinched the 12th and final spot in the Senate race, framed her win as a symbol of perseverance and principle.

“Ang tagumpay na ito, kahit gaano kailap at kahirap, ay isang katibayan na kapag ikaw ay nanindigan para sa tama, mananalo ka.”

(This victory, though difficult and elusive, is proof that when you stand for what is right, you will triumph.)

Proclamation Speech No Mention of Bongbong Marcos in Speech

When asked post-proclamation why President Bongbong Marcos was noticeably left out of her acknowledgments, Imee gave a candid reply:

“Ay nalimutan ko na. Wala akong kodigo eh.”
(I just forgot. I didn’t have a speech guide.)

Her explanation comes amid tensions within the Marcos camp. The President earlier dropped Imee from the administration’s official Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas (ABP) Senate slate—allegedly due to her Senate probe into the controversial arrest of former President Duterte.

Despite being excluded, Imee received an endorsement from VP Sara Duterte, solidifying her support base within the Duterte-Marcos alliance faction.

Imee on Senate Presidency and VP Impeachment Trial

Speculations have swirled that Imee might be gunning for the Senate presidency, especially after her reelection and high-profile media appearances. But she swiftly shut down the rumors.

“Wala akong naiisip. Gusto ko lang maproklama.”
(I’m not thinking about that. I just want to be proclaimed.)

On the looming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, Imee maintained a neutral stance, stating she will act based on facts and evidence.

“As senator, I will sit as a judge and will rely on the evidence presented.”

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Proclamation Speech -Final Thoughts

The Marcos-Duterte alliance appears increasingly complex as Imee Marcos charts her political path independently from her brother’s administration. Whether this omission was a mere slip—or a subtle signal—remains open to public interpretation. One thing’s clear: Imee is not backing down from her stand, even when it means walking a different path from President Marcos Jr.

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