Issue Date
2023
Abstract
Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s victory in the 2022 presidential elections materialized the growing sentiment and gradual loss of confidence in the Philippines’ post-EDSA democracy. This year marked the Marcoses’ return to power, exactly 50 years after Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. declared martial law to consolidate his iron-fisted and kleptocratic authoritarian rule under what came to be known as Marcosian politics. Backed by a 31-million electoral majority victory, Marcos Jr. began his inaugural year as president by endorsing expansive economic development initiatives, formulating diplomatic strategies to cultivate relations with global superpowers, fostering alliances with regional neighbors, and employing political maneuvers that deviate from traditional authoritarian leadership, albeit one that circumvents safety nets placed to prevent state encroachment and the bypassing of democratic processes. When Marcos Jr. took over the national executive role, he was bent on repositioning Marcosian politics while disassociating himself from its failures. Nevertheless, his intention to overshadow his family’s infamy with his own achievements and vision may be frustrated by the systemic defects associated with the country’s dysfunctional democracy. As Marcos Jr. appealed to be judged by his performance of duty and not by family history, he finds himself in a fragile balancing act of sustaining popular and elite support, pursuing an independent foreign policy in the midst of mounting geopolitical tensions, and navigating an uncertain path to national recovery.
Source or Periodical Title
UP Los Baños Journal
Volume
21
Issue
3
Page
96-125
Document Type
Article
College
College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)
Language
English
Subject
Marcosian politics, Bongbong Marcos, 2022 Philippine elections, Marcos Jr. presidency, Marcos Jr. Administration
Recommended Citation
Ayson, Miguel Enrico G. and Reyes, Lara Gianina S., "Repositioning Marcosian politics: assessing Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s first year of presidency" (2023). Journal Article. 6011.
https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/journal-articles/6011