What once seemed like an unbreakable alliance has now turned into a cold war inside Philippine politics.

The so-called “Uniteam” between President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (BBM) and Vice President Sara Duterte was hailed in 2022 as the strongest political tandem the country had ever seen — a historic north-south union. But now, Die-Hard Duterte Supporters (DDS) are turning their backs on BBM, and rumors are swirling that the Duterte family itself has cut ties behind closed doors.

The reason? Not just politics. Something deeper, more personal — and dangerously explosive.

1. BBM Accused of Betraying a Secret “Uniteam Deal”

Insiders from the Duterte camp claim that there was an unwritten agreement before the elections:

Sara Duterte would slide down to VP in exchange for full DDS support

BBM would uphold Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial legacy, especially the war on drugs

The Marcos camp would protect — not erase — the Dutertes’ political footprint

But according to multiple pro-Duterte figures, BBM broke the deal.

“He used us to win. Then dropped us like yesterday’s garbage,” one DDS influencer wrote.
“He never cared about continuity — only his own agenda.”

2. Budget Cuts to Duterte-Era Projects Spark Outrage

Among the biggest complaints is BBM’s decision to slash funding for flagship Duterte programs, including Build, Build, Build projects in Davao and Mindanao.

To many DDS supporters, this wasn’t just political — it was personal.

“This was payback,” said a former Duterte campaign strategist.
“They’re erasing Rodrigo Duterte’s name from the national narrative — one canceled project at a time.”

3. Sara Duterte Sidelined — Was She Used as a Pawn?

Despite being the Vice President, Sara Duterte was not appointed to any critical Cabinet role like the DILG or DND — positions she was rumored to be eyeing.

Her portfolio? Education Secretary — far from power circles, and far from influence.

“She was used for votes. Period,” said a viral post from a DDS-aligned page.
“BBM got what he needed, and now she’s just a ceremonial figure.”

4. The Confidential Fund Controversy: Silence Speaks Volumes

In 2023, Sara Duterte became embroiled in a firestorm over confidential funds. She was dragged through media and political hearings, accused of overspending, and vilified by critics.

But through it all, President Marcos Jr. remained silent.

“He didn’t lift a finger to defend her,” one DDS supporter posted.
“That silence was betrayal.”

Many DDS groups now believe this controversy was deliberately allowed to escalate — to weaken Sara’s 2028 chances.

5. Rodrigo Duterte’s Cryptic Attacks — And Who They’re REALLY About

Former President Duterte has delivered several fiery speeches lately — attacking an unnamed official as “power-hungry,” “two-faced,” and “pretending to be a friend.”

While no names were mentioned, the implication was loud and clear.

“This person is addicted to power, but lacks principle,” Duterte said.
“He says he’s pro-Filipino, but bows to foreign interests. He’s not one of us.”

In DDS circles, it’s no longer a mystery who he meant.

The Bottom Line: The Uniteam Was a Mirage

What began as a powerful alliance now looks like a convenient marriage of political survival — one that has crumbled under betrayal, ambition, and mistrust.

BBM may have won the presidency with Duterte’s help, but many believe he never intended to share the power, much less preserve his predecessor’s legacy.

Now, with Sara Duterte increasingly distant, DDS pages turning hostile, and the Marcos camp trying to control the narrative — one question echoes louder than ever:

“Who really betrayed whom?”

And perhaps even more urgently:

“Will this cold war turn into an open political war before 2028?”

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