Senator Imee Marcos announced on Saturday her decision to seek reelection as an independent candidate for Eleksyon 2025, despite being included in the administration’s senatorial slate endorsed by her brother, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
In a video posted on social media, Imee explained that her decision stems from her desire to stand on her own, citing the influence of her late father, President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. “As his eldest, I choose to stand free and firm, like him; in believing that there should be no allegiance but to the Filipino people,” she stated, noting that it was the 35th anniversary of her father’s passing.
The senator emphasized that running as an independent candidate would prevent her brother from being placed in a difficult position. “I chose to stand alone so that my ading (younger brother) will no longer be put in a difficult position, and my true friends won’t have to hesitate.”
Currently affiliated with the Nacionalista Party, Imee expressed gratitude to the administration and her allies for their continued support, while reiterating her commitment to serving the Filipino people. “I choose to remain free and loyal—not to any group, but to every Filipino,” she said.
The Marcos administration’s senatorial slate was officially announced during the Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas Convention, where Imee was notably absent. Despite this, Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco, the alliance’s campaign manager, affirmed their support for the senator, praising her contributions to public service.
