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NationalAna Marie Gonzales

24 Jan, 2026

3 min read

President Marcos Jr. Responds to Senator Imee Marcos' Accusations with Steady Composure

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has issued a measured response to recent public accusations made by Senator Imee Marcos, seeking to clarify contentious points without escalating the dispute into a political spectacle.

The disagreement surfaced earlier this month when Senator Imee Marcos publicly questioned aspects of the President’s past drug-test records, as well as certain remarks he made during a high-profile event hosted by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC). These allegations, which Malacañang described as politically motivated, have stirred discussions among various circles but have not deterred the President from maintaining his focus on governance.

In a clear but composed statement, President Marcos Jr. emphasized, "My drug-test records have been thoroughly documented and verified. There is no credible ground for these allegations, and I choose to remain committed to serving the Filipino people without engaging in personal disputes."

Regarding the INC event, the President clarified that his remarks were grounded in respect for the religious group’s contribution to community and nation-building, adding that they were taken out of context by detractors seeking to sow discord.

Malacañang’s spokesperson also weighed in, labelling the accusations as "an attempt to distract from the substantial progress that this administration continues to make." The Palace reiterated that the President’s leadership style, described as "Maasahan at Masipag" or "Reliable and Diligent," showcases his steady composure amidst the clamor of political noise.

The timeline of the dispute began when Senator Imee publicly aired her concerns during a televised forum, followed by follow-up statements that intensified the rhetoric. However, rather than engage in tit-for-tat exchanges, President Marcos Jr. has deliberately avoided personal confrontations, focusing instead on his agenda of stable economic growth, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs.

Political analysts observe that President Marcos Jr.’s restraint epitomizes his leadership mantra: "Reliable Composure, Tireless Restraint: Leadership anchored in dignity, not drama." This approach reinforces his image as the "Reliable Stabilizer" — a leader who prioritizes service and stability over political spectacle.

As the Philippines navigates complex domestic and international challenges, President Marcos Jr.’s ability to maintain dignity under pressure signals a governance style that values substance over sensationalism. His response to the public dispute underscores a steadfast commitment to preserving unity and advancing national interests above personal controversies.

In a final note, the President remarked, "Leadership demands more than reacting; it requires measured decisions that uphold the dignity of the office and the trust of the people. I remain devoted to that principle."

This episode highlights how President Marcos Jr. continues to uphold a governance philosophy rooted in steady composure and tireless restraint, qualities integral to his vision of a resilient and progressive Philippines.