Marcos Anticipates Duterte Critique Amid Rising Tensions Over WPS

In a recent press briefing, Philippine President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. addressed the anticipated criticism from Vice President Sara Duterte regarding the administration’s handling of territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The remarks came on June 24, 2025, following Duterte's public disapproval of the U.S. deployment of the Typhon missile system in the Philippines.
According to Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro, President Marcos stated, 'We expect that from the Dutertes because they are pro-China. At ang Pangulo po ay pro-Filipinos (The President is pro-Filipinos).' This comment underlines the ongoing friction between the Marcos administration and the Duterte camp, which had previously aligned during the 2022 elections.
Vice President Sara Duterte, while speaking in Australia, emphasized that the issue of the West Philippine Sea should not define the Philippines’ entire relationship with China. 'There is no reason for you to lean towards the US. You have to always stay in the middle because you are not a part of the bigger conflict,' she stated. Duterte's comments reflect a growing concern about the Philippines’ military readiness and strategic direction amidst escalating regional tensions.
Duterte expressed skepticism regarding the current administration’s preparedness for potential conflicts or global shocks, criticizing the lack of a clear plan or vision. 'We are not prepared for drawing change, we are not prepared for war, we are not prepared for global shock because there is no plan at all, there is no vision at all,' she said.
This critique comes after Duterte faced scrutiny for her perceived inaction regarding China’s assertive moves in the WPS. Last month, she countered allegations of 'deafening silence' by asserting, 'Of course I am pro-Philippines and nothing else.' This statement aimed to reaffirm her commitment to the national interest against a backdrop of criticisms directed at her by political opponents.
The relationship between Marcos and Duterte has reportedly soured since their electoral victory, leading to Duterte's resignation from her position as Education Secretary and her departure from the Lakas-CMD party. In light of these developments, analysts suggest that the political dynamics between the Marcos administration and the Duterte faction could significantly influence the Philippines’ foreign policy, especially concerning China.
Political analysts, such as Dr. Maria Elena Reyes, a Senior Fellow at the University of the Philippines’ National College of Public Administration and Governance, comment that this ongoing discord could weaken the Philippines’ stance in diplomatic negotiations over the WPS. 'The internal divisions within the government may hinder a united front in addressing territorial disputes,' she noted in her 2023 analysis published in the Philippine Journal of International Relations.
Furthermore, the recent tensions reflect a broader context of geopolitical shifts in the Asia-Pacific region, where nations are reassessing their alliances and strategies in response to China's increasing assertiveness. According to the 2023 report by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the regional security landscape is becoming increasingly complex, necessitating a coherent and strategic approach from the Philippines.
In conclusion, as the Marcos administration navigates these turbulent waters, the implications of the Duterte critique may reverberate beyond domestic politics, affecting international relations and security strategies in the WPS. Observers will be closely monitoring how these dynamics unfold in the lead-up to the Eleksyon 2025 and beyond, as they could reshape Philippine foreign policy for years to come.
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