Rappler
View from Manila: China, West Philippine Sea as 2025 campaign issues
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. intensified his campaign rhetoric against China during rallies in Mindanao, Iloilo, and Davao del Norte, accusing opponents of aligning with Beijing.
He criticized candidates perceived as "Chinese lackeys" who allegedly supported actions like water cannoning of Philippine Coast Guard vessels and bullying of Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea.
Marcos questioned if the Philippines would revert to a "province of China" based on the choices made in the upcoming elections.
The President's remarks highlight escalating tensions between the Philippines and China over maritime disputes, occurring ahead of the May mid-term elections.
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See how different news organizations are covering this story. Below are the original articles from various Philippine news sources that contributed to this summary.
Former Associate Justice Antonio Carpio cautioned Filipinos about electing "Manchurian candidates" in the upcoming Eleksyon 2025, warning that some politicians may be unduly influenced by China.
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President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to vote for administration senatorial candidates, highlighting their clean records regarding alleged involvement in drug war killings, pandemic corruption, and supporting China in the West Philippine Sea.
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