Despite economic concerns, analysts say the May 12 election for a host of seats, including the whole of the House of Representatives, will play out as a proxy battle for the two leading political dynasties, represented by former president Rodrigo Duterte, left, and his successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., right (Nikkei montage/Source photos by AP and Reuters)

In Philippines election, personality trumps policy as economic storm brews

Inflation worries swirl, but clan allegiances to prevail in midterm ballot choices

RAMON ROYANDOYAN

May 9, 2025 06:00 JST

DAVAO CITY, Philippines -- For Filipinos like Randy Martinez, May 12's midterm elections for the House of Representatives, half of the Senate and thousands of city and municipal council seats come at a time when crucial policymaking and legislation could have a hand in spurring development across a country falling short of its economic growth targets.

Weak consumption and a battery of typhoons clipped growth toward the second half of 2024. Meanwhile, stubborn inflation and a two-year slump in per capita income expansion have left citizens like Martinez, who sells smoothies and pancakes in an alley in Davao City's busy Bankerohan market, grappling with weakened purchasing power.