The Supreme Court’s decision that the Marcos property in Paoay, Ilocos Norte is “ill-gotten” brings a delicious twist of irony to the art of restitution. 

After decades of legal battles, the Marcoses are now being asked to return their ill-gotten property—back to themselves! As head of state, President Bongbong Marcos will graciously accept this “returned” wealth on behalf of the state, proving once and for all that history does have a sense of humor. It’s as if the universe looked at the Marcos legacy of power and wealth and decided, “You know what? Let’s make this even more absurd.” 

In the grand theater of Philippine politics, this decision feels like a punchline delivered with a straight face. And the ultimate question remains: will this “return” actually change anything, or will it simply be the latest act in the family’s long-running comedy of ownership?