Millions of Filipinos cast ballots Monday in midterm elections marked by a political rivalry between President Ferdinand Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte, whose competing alliances aim to reshape the nation's legislative landscape. Though not directly on the ballot, both leaders have campaigned aggressively for their preferred candidates across 18,000 contested positions.
Violence Mars Voting Process
A pre-dawn shooting near a polling center in Negros Occidental province left two dead and five injured, underscoring longstanding election security challenges. The Philippine National Police reported 13 election-related deaths nationwide since May 3, according to The Philippine Star.
Senate Control at Stake
The 12 newly elected senators will hold decisive influence in potential impeachment proceedings against Duterte later this year. Voters also selected 300 House representatives and 17,000 local officials, results of which will shape policy implementation through 2025.
Security Forces Mobilized
Over 68 million registered voters participated under heavy security, with military quick-reaction teams deployed nationwide. Polls closed at 7 p.m., with unofficial tallies expected shortly after. The Commission on Elections emphasized electoral integrity despite isolated violence incidents.
