Marcos seen following Duterte's China-friendly path

Victory of dictator's son could complicate U.S. efforts in Asia-Pacific

Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. gave few inklings of a foreign policy platform during the presidential campaign, but past statements suggest engagement with China. (Photo by Ken Kobayashi)

YUICHI SHIGA and TAKASHI NAKANO, Nikkei staff writers

May 11, 2022 03:27 JST

MANILA -- Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s overwhelming win in the Philippine presidential election likely will mean a continuation of outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte's embrace of China, while possibly complicating U.S. strategy in the Asia-Pacific.

Hundreds of supporters gathered outside Marcos's campaign headquarters on Epifanio de los Santos Avenue in central Manila on Tuesday to celebrate his victory. With more than 98% of votes counted, Marcos led main rival Vice President Leni Robredo by over 30 percentage points.