In the theater of Philippine politics, the ongoing clash between Marcos loyalists and Duterte die-hards resembles a bizarre spectacle, akin to watching two sides of the same coin argue over which side is shinier. 

Amidst the cacophony of insults and accusations, former journalists and vloggers have shamelessly transformed into propaganda machines, churning out a nauseating blend of sour grapes and outright falsehoods.

Meanwhile, as these factions hurl verbal grenades at each other, the real winners remain the Pinklawan and those still nursing the wounds of defeat from the last election. They watch with a mixture of amusement and frustration as the supporters of Marcos and Duterte engage in a never-ending cycle of vitriol. They win without really doing anything!

Let’s face it: Duterte’s reign is over, and Marcos now holds the reins until 2028. As for those harboring ambitions reminiscent of the Duterte era, their time may come, but for now, they are mere spectators in the grand circus of Philippine politics.

by Brian Neyra, Adobo Chronicles’ senior geopolitical correspondent

In a stunning display of political indecisiveness, last Tuesday’s Republican primary unveiled a champion unlike any other: None of the Candidates! 

With the absence of Donald Trump’s name on the ballot, the stage was set for a showdown, but instead, voters collectively shrugged, handing victory to the ultimate non-entity. Despite Nikki Haley’s valiant effort, snagging a mere 30% of the vote, the resounding winner was the option that screamed, “None of the above!” 

In a remarkable twist, it turns out that not voting for any of the candidates was the most popular choice, securing a whopping 63% of the vote. This outcome is a masterclass in political irony – a moment where the absence of a candidate speaks louder than any campaign rhetoric. 

With the possibility of any candidate not on the ballot emerging victorious, including the absent Trump, it’s a lesson in democracy where the power of ambiguity reigns supreme. Truly, a victory for the void!