The Philippine political arena is witnessing a spectacle of Shakespearean proportions, a family drama so intense it threatens to reshape the nation’s leadership landscape. At the center of this storm is the widening chasm between President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM) and his elder sister, Senator Imee Marcos. The tension, which has been simmering for months, has finally boiled over into a public spectacle, prompting veteran columnist Ramon Tulfo to unleash a commentary that has set social media ablaze. The “pasabog” (explosive revelation) isn’t just about politics; it’s about a family tearing itself apart under the glare of the public eye.

The catalyst for this latest round of controversy was a fiery speech delivered by Senator Imee at a recent rally. Her words, sharp and critical of her brother’s administration, were a far cry from the “Solid North” unity that propelled them to power. The ferocity of her attacks left many observers stunned, leading to a heartbreaking reaction from the President himself. According to Tulfo’s analysis of the situation, PBBM was visibly emotional, holding back tears as he declared that the woman attacking him on stage and social media was “not the sister he knows.”

“Not My Sister”: A President’s Heartbreak

The President’s statement is loaded with implications. It suggests a transformation in Senator Imee so radical that she has become unrecognizable to her own flesh and blood. Tulfo points out that even the inner circle of the Marcos family and their longtime friends are baffled. They remember a different Imee—one who was supportive and aligned with the family’s goals. This new persona, one who is willing to publicly humiliate her brother without presenting concrete evidence, is being viewed as an anomaly.

This sentiment was highlighted during a recent Christmas tree lighting event at Malacañang Palace. The event was attended by the First Family, business tycoons, and even political figures from the opposition, like former Vice President Leni Robredo. Conspicuously absent was Senator Imee. Her subsequent statement on social media was dismissive and cold, claiming she wasn’t invited and wouldn’t have gone even if she were, citing her dislike for the “drama” at the Palace. This rejection of a family tradition speaks volumes about the severity of the rift.

The “Contagion” Theory

Ramon Tulfo, known for his blunt and often controversial takes, raised a provocative question: Is the “toxicity” contagious? He, along with many netizens, speculates that Senator Imee’s sudden shift in demeanor may be influenced by her close association with Vice President Sara Duterte. The Vice President is known for her aggressive and no-holds-barred political style. Tulfo suggests that Imee may have adopted this “attack dog” persona, effectively becoming a proxy in the growing rift between the Marcos and Duterte factions.

The video analysis draws parallels between Imee’s recent rhetoric and the Vice President’s known style of verbal offensives. The narrator argues that attacking one’s own sibling in front of a massive crowd is uncharacteristic of the “Filipino family values” the Marcoses often espouse. It is a tactic usually reserved for bitter political rivals, not brother and sister. This “influence” theory paints a picture of a Senator who has been swayed by external forces, leading her to burn bridges with the very administration she helped build.

A History of Sacrifice Ignored

Adding a layer of tragedy to the feud is the reminder of PBBM’s personal sacrifices for his family. The commentary highlights a lesser-known fact from history: PBBM donated one of his kidneys to their father, the late Ferdinand Marcos Sr., during his illness in the 1980s. This act of physical sacrifice required him to alter his lifestyle permanently, forbidding him from vices like smoking.

For supporters of the President, this context makes Imee’s attacks feel like the ultimate betrayal. They see a brother who literally gave a part of himself for the family patriarch now being vilified by the sister who stood by him during their years in exile. The narrative is shifting sympathy towards PBBM, who is seen as maintaining a dignified silence and “humility” in the face of relentless provocation. Even critics of the administration are finding themselves sympathizing with the President on a human level, viewing Imee’s actions as “below the belt.”

The Crumbling Alliance

The fallout from this feud is palpable. Comments from Ilocano constituents—the bedrock of the Marcos power base—indicate a shifting tide. Many are expressing disappointment in Imee, with some vowing not to vote for her again. The perception is that she is destabilizing the government and embarrassing the family.

As the “UniTeam” alliance fractures, the public is left watching a painful reality show. Is this merely political theater, or is it the genuine disintegration of a dynasty? With Ramon Tulfo stoking the fires with his commentary and the President openly expressing his distress, one thing is clear: the holiday season in Malacañang will be anything but peaceful. The “pasabog” has detonated, and the casualties are trust, loyalty, and family ties.