Marcos presidency complicates US efforts to counter China

By DAVID RISING and JIM GOMEZ
Associated Press

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s apparent landslide victory in the Philippines presidential election is raising immediate concerns about a further erosion of democracy in Asia. It also could complicate American efforts to blunt growing Chinese influence and power in the Pacific. Experts say a lot has to do with how President Joe Biden’s administration responds to the Marcos family’s return to power after dictator Ferdinand Marcos was ousted and sent into exile in 1986. Observers say the U.S. may find engagement the best option since its own strategic interests are at play.