Imelda Marcos, the widow of former Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos and a former First Lady, has returned to the Philippines after delivering a speech in the Australian Parliament. Upon her arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, the 92-year-old Marcos was greeted by a small gathering of supporters.
Marcos, who served as the First Lady of the Philippines from 1965 to 1986, was known for her extravagant lifestyle and collection of thousands of pairs of shoes. She was also known for her involvement in the political affairs of the Philippines, particularly during the martial law era under her husband’s rule.
During her visit to Australia, Marcos addressed the Australian Parliament and spoke about her husband’s legacy. She also met with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and other government officials.
Marcos’ visit to Australia was met with criticism from some groups in the Philippines, who accused her of being a “war criminal” and a “dictator’s wife.” However, Marcos defended her husband’s legacy, saying that he “saved” the Philippines from communism and that he was a “great leader.”
After her return to the Philippines, Marcos said that she was “very happy” to be back home. She also thanked the Australian government for their hospitality during her visit.
Marcos’ return to the Philippines comes at a time when her family is facing legal challenges. In 2018, the Philippine Supreme Court ordered the Marcos family to return billions of dollars worth of assets that were allegedly stolen from the Philippine government during Ferdinand Marcos’ rule.
The Marcos family has denied any wrongdoing and has said that the assets in question were acquired legally. However, the Philippine government has been working to recover the assets, and the case is ongoing.
Despite the legal challenges, the Marcos family remains influential in Philippine politics. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the son of Imelda Marcos, is a senator in the Philippines and is widely expected to run for president in the next election.
Marcos’ return to the Philippines has sparked debate about her husband’s legacy and the role of the Marcos family in Philippine politics. Some people see the Marcos family as a symbol of corruption and authoritarianism, while others view them as defenders of Philippine sovereignty and national security.
The discussion regarding the Marcos family’s legacy is anticipated to persist in the Philippines in the foreseeable future. Nonetheless, one aspect is apparent: Imelda Marcos’ homecoming has again highlighted her family’s contentious past and their ongoing impact on Philippine politics.
