The First Couple’s dinner in Malacañang was a feast for the stomach—and the political grapevine. While nearly everyone RSVP’d “yes” (because who says no to free food in Malacañang?), the glaring absence of presidential sister Imee Marcos stole the spotlight. Was it a scheduling conflict, or is Imee too busy perfecting her BFF poses with VP Sara Duterte?

It’s classic Imee: the prodigal sister with a flair for subtle rebellion. Skipping the family dinner might just be her way of saying, “I’ll take the political high ground, and the dessert too.” Or perhaps she’s testing the waters for a solo act in the 2025 elections, banking on her “bestie” status with Sara to scoop votes from the Duterte fan club.

Whatever her motives, the message is clear: Imee is playing her own game. Whether that game is chess, poker, or a new telenovela, only time—and election results—will tell.