Marcos Jr aims to fulfil family’s ‘destiny’ as Philippines president

Late dictator's son promises unity but opponents fear family's return to power could reverse democratic gains

It was in 1986 that the dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family were forced to leave the Philippines in disgrace. Helicopters airlifted the family from the Malacanang Palace, as protesters filled the streets. Marcos Sr, after ruling with an iron fist for 20 years, had been toppled by a popular uprising, the People Power Revolution.

Crowds stormed the abandoned palace, discovering the extent of the family's opulence. There were grand artworks, boxes of commemorative gold coins, lavish jewellery, hundreds of gowns, dresses, and, infamously, an enormous collection of designer shoes belonging to the former first lady, Imelda Marcos.