Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s expected victory in the Philippines' upcoming presidential election would result in a significant degree of domestic and foreign policy continuity. A surprise victory by his main rival, however, could see Manila develop closer ties with the United States and a more hawkish stance on China. The Philippines will hold a general election on May 9. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. -- the son of the country's late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. -- is the leading candidate. Marcos Jr. is running for president in an alliance with current Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's daughter, Sarah Duterte, who is running in a separate election for vice president. The country's current vice president, Maria Leonor ''Leni'' Robredo, is also a contender for the presidency, along with Senator Manny Pacquiao and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno. Stagnant wage growth, rising inflation, government corruption, the future of Duterte's current war on drugs, and the Phillippines' post-COVID...
