Philippines elections 2025: polls open in midterms as Marcos and Duterte family dynasties vie for power

The Philippine midterm elections, held amid heightened tensions over President Duterte's impeachment and Vice President Ferdinand Marcos' feud, saw a massive voter turnout across the archipelago. With extensive security measures in place to prevent violence, including thousands of police and military personnel on duty, the race carried significant implications for the Senate and potential impeachment proceedings targeting Duterte's family. The conflict flaring since Duterte's February impeachment adds complexity to her bid for re-election in 2028, with one city council candidate already securing a comfortable victory.