It All Started with ‘Bangag’: How the Rift Between Liza Marcos and Sara Duterte Began

The political tension between First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte has become one of the most talked-about rifts in Philippine politics. But how did it all start? The roots of this conflict can be traced back to a single word—‘bangag.’

The Controversial Word: ‘Bangag’

The rift between Liza Marcos and Sara Duterte is said to have begun when a viral incident occurred involving the word ‘bangag’, a term widely understood in Filipino slang as meaning ‘high’ or ‘intoxicated.’ The word was used by Liza Marcos in a conversation with several allies, which quickly spread in the media.

At the heart of the controversy was Liza’s use of the term when she was allegedly describing VP Sara Duterte’s behavior during a crucial political meeting. Sources claimed that Liza described Duterte as “bangag,” insinuating that the Vice President’s actions were erratic or out of control. While Liza later denied the claims and dismissed them as rumors, the damage was already done.

Duterte’s Reaction: A Public Rebuke

Sara Duterte did not take kindly to the allegations and swiftly addressed the issue in public. In a heated speech, she called out those spreading rumors, specifically targeting Liza Marcos. VP Duterte was adamant in expressing her dismay over the accusations, stating that the use of such derogatory terms was an unwarranted attack on her character.

“To those who want to bring me down, be ready to face the truth. I will not remain silent when my integrity is at stake,” said VP Sara Duterte, during a public appearance.

She made it clear that the comments from Liza Marcos were not only disrespectful but also reflected the growing friction between the two, especially considering their political and familial ties.

The Fallout: Growing Tensions

The incident sparked a wave of backlash from both sides. Duterte’s supporters rallied behind her, criticizing Liza Araneta Marcos for her choice of words, which many saw as crossing a line. Meanwhile, Marcos’s allies stood by her, claiming the accusations against her were exaggerated and part of an ongoing political smear campaign.

But the incident over the word “bangag” was only the beginning. Tensions simmered as the two powerful women found themselves increasingly at odds. The dispute gradually turned into a more public and intense political conflict, with both sides throwing verbal jabs, and their supporters becoming deeply divided.

Power Struggles and Political Differences

Underlying the animosity between the two women were significant political and ideological differences. Sara Duterte has consistently positioned herself as a staunch defender of the Duterte legacy, while Liza Marcos remains a loyal advocate for the Marcos family and their political dynasty. These conflicting loyalties only made it harder for the two to maintain any semblance of unity.

Moreover, both women wield significant influence within their respective factions. Sara Duterte, as the Vice President, represents a powerful political force, while Liza Marcos, as the First Lady, plays a crucial role in the Marcos administration. This dynamic made the clash between the two all the more intense, with each woman determined to assert her dominance and influence.

Public Perception: Divided Opinions

The public’s reaction to the rift has been mixed. Many political observers believe that the conflict between Liza Marcos and Sara Duterte highlights the deepening divide within the ruling administration. Some see it as a sign of infighting, while others view it as a natural consequence of political competition.

Despite the ongoing friction, both women continue to maintain their positions in government, with Sara Duterte continuing to serve as Vice President and Liza Marcos playing a vital role as the First Lady. However, the tensions between them seem unlikely to subside anytime soon, and the rift between the two powerful figures may continue to shape the Philippine political landscape for years to come.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Saga

What started as a single, seemingly innocuous comment over a slang word has evolved into a full-blown political feud, with personal, ideological, and familial tensions at play. The rift between Liza Araneta Marcos and Sara Duterte may have begun with the word ‘bangag,’ but it has since become emblematic of the complex dynamics that define Philippine politics today.

As the drama unfolds, the public will continue to watch closely, wondering what the next chapter in this saga will bring.