Economist Podcasts The son shines: elections in the Philippines
May 6, 2022
Leo Marani, Asia editor for The Economist, provides a captivating analysis of the upcoming Philippine presidential elections, centered on Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos and his controversial family legacy. He delves into the implications of a potential Marcos presidency, navigating a landscape of mixed public sentiment and historical narratives. Additionally, the discussion shifts to Guyana’s recent oil discoveries, exploring the complexities of becoming a petrostate while also touching on the dire situation of koalas in Australia facing chlamydia challenges.
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Marcos Jr.'s Campaign
- Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, is likely to win the Philippine presidential election.
- His campaign has been surprisingly muted, focusing on "unity" without specific policy promises.
Restoring the Marcos Name
- Marcos Jr.'s campaign seems primarily aimed at redeeming his father's name after being ousted in 1986.
- The elder Marcos's rule was marked by human rights abuses and massive corruption.
The Marcoses' Flight
- When the Marcos family fled in 1986, they took vast wealth, including cash, gold, and Imelda's infamous shoe collection.
- This extravagance symbolized the corruption of the Marcos regime.