Sri Lanka, May 12 -- Millions of Filipinos began voting today (12) in midterm elections that are being viewed as a significant political showdown between President Ferdinand Marcos and impeached Vice President Sara Duterte.

These midterms, typically less prominent, are crucial for the political futures of both leaders.

The elections will determine the occupants of over 18,000 positions, including mayors, governors, and members of the House of Representatives, representing the 110 million-strong population of the Philippines.

The contest for more than a dozen seats in the 24-member Senate is particularly important, as these senators will form half of the jury in an impeachment trial for Duterte later this year.

If Duterte fails to secu...