On Friday’s Global Focus, Backchat talks about Philippines politics in the gear-up to the Senatorial elections in May next year. Voters will get to choose 12 out of 24 senators, 318 congressmen, 82 governors, 1634 mayors and over 13,000 councillors in an election that could serve as a barometer of confidence for incumbent President Bongbong Marcos.

Seen by some analysts as a battle of dynasties, these elections could see former President Rodrigo Duterte become mayor of Davao, a position he held for seven terms prior to winning the presidency in 2016.


Notable figures taking part in these elections include boxing star turned politician Manny Pacquiao as well as FBI wanted televangelist pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who is currently detained in a Philippines jail facing charges of human trafficking, child and sexual abuse.


In a move to clamp down on the spreading of misinformation, election authorities have required candidates — some of whom are well known influencers — to register their social media accounts. Some see this move as necessary while others worry that this is prone to abuse.


So how significant are these elections in defining the country’s local politics? We’ll find out.


After 9:45, we talk about swimming literacy ahead of a 45 km swimming race organised around Hong Kong island by Splash Foundation.


Tell us what you think. If you'd like to take part in the conversation, call us on 2338 8266. WhatsApp us on 6899 8518. Comment on our Facebook page. Or email backchat@rthk.hk.