Imee Marcos insists being an independent senate bet

MANILA, Philippines - Despite attending rallies for Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, a coalition backed by her brother President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., Senator Imee Marcos has reiterated her status as an independent candidate.

Despite being on Alyansa's slate at first, she declared her intention to withdraw last September. But on February 12, she went to the group's campaign kickoff in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, and on February 13, she went to another rally in Iloilo.

She made it clear during a Senate press briefing that she was still running as an independent.

"I clarified with Alyansa that I would be free to speak my mind," Imee said.

Even though she is independent, Imee recognized the value of her brother's support in her 2025 reelection campaign, pointing out that even though they may have different policies, they still support each other as family.

"I don't agree with everything said on stage, but I'll still join, especially since friends host many of the rallies," Imee added.

Sen. Marcos acknowledged that she was uncomfortable over the President's intention to win all 12 senatorial seats because of her friendship with candidates from different parties, including as Senators Christopher "Bong" Go and Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, who ran alongside her in 2019.

"I don't like the harsh criticism from either side, so I became independent." It is painful,” she said.