Political Clash: Former President Duterte Accuses Successor Marcos of Drug Use and Conspiracies

Duterte’s Explosive Allegations

In a dramatic turn of events, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte launched a verbal salvo against his successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., leveling serious accusations of drug use and conspiracies. During a fiery speech, Duterte alleged that Marcos’ legislative allies were plotting to manipulate the constitution, potentially paving the way for Marcos’ ouster, mirroring the fate of his father, the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Duterte further escalated the tension by accusing Marcos of being a drug addict.

Marcos’ Dismissive Response

Marcos, facing the allegations head-on, responded with a dismissive attitude, laughing off Duterte’s claims during a press conference before his departure to Vietnam. Marcos refused to directly address the allegations, but in a counter-accusation, he suggested that Duterte’s behavior may be influenced by the use of fentanyl, a powerful opioid. Marcos speculated that Duterte’s alleged fentanyl usage over the past five to six years could be affecting his mental state.

Fentanyl and Political Tensions

Duterte’s past admission of using fentanyl to manage pain from spinal injuries has added another layer of intrigue to the political drama. While Duterte acknowledged past fentanyl use, he has not publicly acknowledged ongoing use. Marcos’ insinuation of Duterte’s fentanyl usage as a factor in his behavior has further fueled speculation and tension between the two leaders.

Conspiracy Theories and Constitutional Amendments

Duterte’s allegations extended beyond Marcos’ personal conduct, delving into accusations of a conspiracy within the House of Representatives to amend the constitution. He claimed that Marcos’ supporters, including House Speaker Martin Romualdez, are bribing local officials to alter the 1987 constitution, specifically to remove term limits and extend their grip on power. Romualdez, who is Marcos’ cousin, vehemently denied these claims, stating that his goal is solely to amend restrictions on foreign investment.

Marcos’ Stance on Constitutional Amendments

Marcos has expressed openness to altering economic provisions of the constitution but has firmly opposed any changes to provisions that restrict foreign ownership of land and critical industries like the media. The Philippine constitution limits presidents to a single six-year term. The Senate, known for its checks-and-balance role, has issued a statement warning against the House of Representatives’ plans to pursue amendments in joint session, emphasizing the potential undermining of its oversight function.

Historical Context and Political Rivalry

The 1987 constitution, designed with safeguards to prevent dictatorships, emerged after Marcos’ father, Ferdinand Marcos Sr., was ousted from power in 1986 through a popular uprising known as “people power.” The uprising was sparked by allegations of plunder and human rights atrocities during his rule. The current political rift between Duterte and Marcos has brought to light months of rumored tensions between the two leaders, despite the fact that Duterte’s daughter, Sara, is Marcos’ vice president.

Alleged Drug Involvement and International Criminal Court Probe

Duterte, known for his harsh anti-drug campaign that resulted in thousands of deaths, made the startling claim that Marcos was once listed as a suspected drug user by law enforcement. However, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency refuted this allegation, confirming that Marcos was never on such a list. Duterte’s supporters have also expressed outrage over reports of an unannounced visit by International Criminal Court investigators to probe the widespread killings during Duterte’s anti-drug crackdown.

Divergent Foreign Policies

Duterte and Marcos have also clashed over foreign policy. While Duterte cultivated close ties with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian leader Vladimir Putin during his presidency, Marcos has shown a shift towards Washington, considering the ongoing territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea. Marcos’ decision to allow an expansion of the U.S. military presence in the Philippines under a defense pact further highlights this divergence in foreign policy.

Marcos’ Campaign for a “New Philippines”

Marcos, who succeeded Duterte in mid-2022, campaigned on promises of economic revival after the COVID-19 pandemic and unity in a country plagued by poverty and political divisions. He led a rally in Manila, attended by an estimated 400,000 people, to launch his campaign for a “new Philippines,” aiming to reform governance and improve public services. Marcos emphasized the need for efficient and responsive government services, urging officials to eliminate red tape and delays.

Conclusion: Escalating Tensions and Uncertain Political Future

The escalating tensions between Duterte and Marcos have brought to light deep divisions within the Philippine political landscape. The accusations, denials, and counter-accusations have created a climate of uncertainty and heightened political drama. The outcome of these clashes and their impact on the country’s future remain to be seen.