Imee says BBM-Sara split is reason for breaking from slate

By Joseph Bernard A. Marzan

MANILA—Senator Imee Marcos, who is running for re-election in the 2025 polls, addressed her decision to exit her brother President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s senatorial slate, citing political tensions between his camp and that of Vice President Sara Duterte.

In a press conference on Monday, September 30, Marcos explained her decision not to join her brother’s lineup, which she first announced on Saturday, September 28.

While opting out of the slate, she reaffirmed her support for the president’s initiatives.

“There is a need to be free rather than to ‘row between two rivers,’” she said.

“It’s a tremendous sacrifice to stand alone, but I need to be free to cross the line, to talk to all parties, and to get things done. ‘Uniteam’ was a dream I shared in 2022, and I still hold fast to that dream of unity for all Filipinos.”

Marcos emphasized her desire to remain independent, stating she was open to appearing at campaign events with the president but wanted to avoid aligning with any fixed political group.

“I didn’t want to be part of any party, sector, or personality. The only side I’m on is the Filipino people. We just want to do what benefits the most,” she said.

The senator acknowledged that her decision was influenced by the pressures of the election season, explaining that the intensity and conflict inherent in campaigns pushed her to take a step back.

“Sometimes hurtful words are said, and I can’t stand that. So it would be proper for me to stay away, even if it’s difficult,” she added.

Marcos also confirmed that her friendship with Vice President Duterte was a factor in her decision.

“When two friends are fighting, you wouldn’t side with one over the other. You’d want to reunite them, and if they’re not ready, you wait on the sidelines,” she explained.

President Marcos Jr. announced his Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial lineup on September 26 in Pasay City.

The slate includes re-electionist Senators Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, and Francis Tolentino, along with returning former senators Ping Lacson, Manny Pacquiao, and Tito Sotto.

Newcomers in the lineup include Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay, ACT-CIS Party-list Representative Erwin Tulfo, and Las Piñas Representative Camille Villar.