Presidency of Bongbong Marcos June 30, 2022 – present | |
Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. | |
Cabinet | See list |
Party | Partido Federal ng Pilipinas |
Election | 2022 |
Seat | Malacañang Palace, Manila |
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Official website |
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Incumbent Political campaigns
Policies
Early political career
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Bongbong Marcos began his presidency at noon on June 30, 2022, following his inauguration as the 17th president of the Philippines, succeeding Rodrigo Duterte. His term is expected to expire six years later, on June 30, 2028. He entered into office amid COVID-19 Omicron variant, and the impact of Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Marcos initially downsized government bureaucracy, especially in the executive branch of the government.[1] His administration oversaw the post-pandemic return to normalcy with the gradual reopening of the economy, return of face-to-face/physical classes, removal of stringent travel restrictions,[2] and the lifting of the mask-wearing mandate for outdoor and indoor settings. He also sought to address the rising inflation and shortage of the country's food supply during the beginning of his presidency.
As president, Marcos signed into law the creation of the Maharlika Investment Fund, the first sovereign wealth fund of the Philippines.[3] Under his term, the Philippines ratified the RCEP in February, and entered into force in June 2023.[4][5] Marcos also went on many foreign trips in hopes to attract more foreign investments in the country. During his term, many Filipinos said they felt unsafe on streets, and the country's drug problem has increased.[6] By the first quarter of 2024, Marcos' performance and trust ratings had dropped significantly, marking an erosion of public trust in him and his administration.[7][8]
Tension in the South China Sea rises during his administration, with more clashes between the Philippine forces and the Chinese Navy and Coast Guard. A Filipino soldier lost his finger during one of the clash and several ramming incidents damaged both Philippine and Chinese vessels. The Philippines also virtually lost control of the Sabina Shoal during his watch.[9][10]
As the son of 10th president Ferdinand Marcos (who was in power from 1965 to 1986), Bongbong Marcos's presidential candidacy has been controversial, receiving criticism from several groups due to his father's regime—a period characterized by violence and oppression against those opposed to his regime,[11][12] political turmoil, and widespread corruption.[13] Some scholars have noted that his campaign was driven by a massive misinformation campaign aimed at revamping the Marcos brand and smearing his rivals;[14][15] Marcos has stated he won't engage in negative and hateful campaigning and has repeatedly declined joining debates that may lead to such.[16][17]
With just less than two years in office, more Filipinos have become dissatisfied with the administration of Bongbong Marcos, according to the survey conducted by Publicus Asia Inc. from November 29 to December 4, 2023. Economic concerns, rising inflation, joblessness, low wages, and a perceived lack of productivity are some of the emerging factors behind the drop in pro-administration support. The survey also noted that the "Duterte effect" still persists, with opposition parties grappling with the discreditation of the previous administration.[18]