Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. railed against China as he started campaigning for his Senate candidates, making the maritime dispute with Beijing a central issue in the high-stakes midterm election in May.

The Philippines midterm elections have kicked off amid deep political divisions, fueled by the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. The move threatens her political future and intensifies the rift with

Campaigning began Tuesday in the Philippines for mid-term elections that could set the table for the next presidential race and determine the political future of impeached Vice President Sara Duterte.