ANKARA 

Thirty-six years after Ferdinand Marcos ceded power, the Philippines is set to be ruled by another Marcos, according to the results of this week’s elections.

Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr, 64, the late Marcos senior’s son, emerged victorious from Monday’s elections, winning around 59% percent of the votes cast.

Asked by reporters if he would pursue a pro-Chinese or pro-US foreign policy, in an area of the globe with fierce competition between the two, Marcos Jr. said his foreign policy will prioritize the Philippines’ interests.

Reiterating that he will work only for the Philippines, he added that the welfare of ordinary Filipino citizens will be the focus of his foreign policy.

Stressing that China is an emerging power in the Asia-Pacific Rim, Marcos Jr. said diplomacy is key to solving disputes with China in the South China Sea.

On the American-Chinese rivalry in the Pacific, he said that his country walks a thin line between two powers without compromising “the special relationship with the US.”

Owing to this relationship, the US can do a lot to help the Philippines, Marcos Jr. said.

Although Marcos Jr. has sought better relations with Russia, he stressed that Ukraine’s independence should be respected.

Who is Ferdinand Marcos Jr.?

Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos was born in 1957. He is the second child and only son of the late Ferdinand Marcos – who held the presidency for 31 years, from 1965 to 1986 – and his widow, former first lady Imelda Marcos.

He was elected to the country’s House of Representatives in 1992.

He also served as a senator from 2010 to 2016, and in 2016 lost his vice presidential bid to Leni Robredo.