The 100 Most Powerful People in the Philippines: Government and Spiritual Leaders

Power doesn’t always announce itself. More often, it reveals itself in subtler ways—in the shift of attention when a certain person enters the room, in the weight carried by a single statement, and the reactions others make in response to it.

At its core, power is the ability to shape outcomes. It can come in the form of formal authority, institutional control, or the far-reaching pull of influence. Some wield it through public office, others through business empires, and still others through platforms that command vast audiences. However it manifests, its effects are undeniable.

 
The individuals on this list represent the many faces of power today. Each holds a distinct capacity to direct conversations, move markets, or influence the national mood. Taken together, they offer a snapshot of who—and what—drives the Philippines forward today.

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Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. is already five years into his Constitutionally mandated term. Those years have been marked by a focus on economic policies that involve laws on liberalizing the economy such as enhancing existing tax regimes and streamlining compliance via laws like CREATE MORE, the Ease of Paying Taxes, the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining, and even the divisive Maharlika Investment Fund. Despite political hurdles such as sullied partisan ties, lingering concerns over massive corruption schemes, and a persistently weak peso, Marcos continus to work on his agenda, including pushing to develop the agriculture sector, maintain a firm stance against China's claim over the South China Sea, and upholding international law and mechanisms.

Surveys say Vice President Sara Duterte is still the candidate to beat in the forthcoming 2028 presidential elections despite facing an impeachment case, her father Rodrigo's detainment and trial before the International Criminal Court, and legislators accusing her of misusing funds among other things that have the caught public ire. It seems the Duterte clan's popularity hasn't faltered despite the very public falling out with her erstwhile political partner, becoming the first official in Philippine history to be impeached twice in just over a year, and even her close political ally Senator Bato Dela Rosa having his own troubles with the ICC. Pundits believe these issues are unlikely to affect her 2028 presidential bid.

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian hasn't always been front and center at the Senate before unseating Senator Alan Peter Cayetano in June. His tenure as a legislator involves a quiet but capable tax reform, energy, and education advocate which he has pursued via priority bills that include the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, Train Law, and other bills that aimed to lower the country's high energy costs. The newly minted third highest official in the country has asserted a departure from the needless gridlocks and infighting in the Upper Chamber to focus on catching up on legislative delays.

The Tulfo brothers have always been a hard-hitting duo in Congress. And now with both media personalities-turned-lawmakers in the same chamber, their combined backgrounds in journalism could prove to be useful in doubling down on state anti-corruption and accountability efforts. Erwin now heads the powerful Senate Blue Ribbon Committee and with it wields influence over summoning anyone the government has to run after. The committee is the Upper Chamber's de facto watchdog especially over the Executive branch in the wake of the massive flood control scandal that cost the government billions of pesos in state infrastructure funds.

It's not that hard to imagine why being at the helm of the country's highest Court and the final arbiter of Constitutional challenges comes with deep political and societal power. Alexander Gesmundo, one of the 11 justices appointed by former President Rodrigo Duterte, oversaw the affirmation of the High Court's ruling that voided the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte. While nearing the end of his tenure as Chief Justice, the race to replace him will definitely be the biggest story in judicial politics, with Senior Associate Justice Marvic widely seen to take his place.

The country's top anti-corruption prosecutor Ombudsman Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla holds the sweeping authority to go after corrupt officials, which he is no stranger to, considering his extensive time as Justice Secretary during the early days of the Marcos administration. Remulla was at the forefront of prosecuting those tied to the alleged kickbacks and irregularities at the Department of Public Works and Highways in the multi-billion pesos flood control scheme. His office also handles high-profile plunder and graft complaints against several senators. Remulla's job as Ombudsman also involves working with the United States government in going after some of the most power officials who have mountains of supposedly ill-gotten wealth stashed abroad.

Theresa Lazaro was appointed the country's top diplomat during a tumultuous time in maritime security and a volatile geopolitical space in which the Philippines is trying to find its footing. It's been a whole decade since the United Nations-backed court of arbitration ruling voided China's claim over the disputed South China Sea, a victory Manila has failed to enforce due to Beijing's vast fishing and maritime fleet patrolling over these contested waters. Lazaro has the monumental task of maintaining an assertive diplomatic stance with Manila's neighbors as well as building a consensus on Code of Conduct in maritime engagements.

House Speaker and Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III holds one of the highest and most powerful leadership positions in the national legislature. He’s a major ally of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., having run under Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP). This grants him a substantial sway over the administration's agenda. Throughout his political career, Dy has held major leadership position in his home province:, including serving as mayor of Cauayan City, governor and vice governor of Isabela. He belongs to the influential Dy political clan, which has dominated the province of Isabela for over four decades.

Iglesia ni Cristo Executive Minister Eduardo V. Manalo is the descendant (grandson) of INC founder Felix Y. Manalo. This position gives him spiritual and administrative authority over the church and its millions of followers. Although this congregation only comprises 2.6 percent of the country’s population (according to 2020 Philippine Statistics Authority data), it is considered highly influential as it practices “command voting,” allowing the church leadership to deliver millions of unified votes. INC also has massive financial assets, extensive real estate holdings, and landmark properties that could possibly influence government decisions and affect the local economy.

Serving as the Pro-Prefect for the Vatican's Dicastery for Evangelization and New Particular Churches within the Vatican's Dicastery for Evangelization, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle holds one of the highest-ranking positions in the global Catholic Church. He is well-loved by the Filipino faithful for his charisma and relatability, his humility and compassion, His strong media presence heavily influences the social and moral discourse in the country, where over 85 million Filipinos identify as Roman Catholic. Often dubbed as the “Asian Francis,” Cardinal Tagle is known to advocate for the poor, migrants, and marginalized communities.

Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto is considered a force to be reckoned with, after dismantling the long-running political dynasty in his city. His leadership champions transparency, accountability, and grassroots services. Now on his third and final term, the millennial mayor relies heavily on data and technology to improve city services, reduce red tape, and streamline public transactions. His anti-corruption efforts have inspired a renewed confidence in local government. Mayor Sotto is a symbol of hope for a new generation in Philippine politics, which is why there is a massive public clamor for him to run for higher office.

Born in Baguio City, General Romeo Brawner Jr. made history as the first military leader of Indigenous Cordilleran (Igorot) descent to lead the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines. His leadership is known for shifting the AFP toward external defense, advancing military modernization, and neutralizing major communist and terrorist threats. He also strengthened strategic alliances with the United States and other regional partners by expanding defense cooperation, joint patrols, and capacity-building initiatives. Brawner’s military blood traces back to his grandfather, Private Lisbon Brawner, an African-American soldier and member of the legendary Buffalo Soldiers who fought during the Philippine-American War and later stayed in the country.

Senator Risa Hontiveros is the first socialist woman elected to the Philippine Senate and the primary voice of the political opposition. She is well-known for leading Senate inquiries that have exposed major national security threats, corruption, and human trafficking, which includes high-profile probes into illegal POGO operations and the "pastillas" scam. As a prominent social democrat, she stands firm against authoritarian populism and championing gender equality and consumer rights. As National Chairperson of the Akbayan Citizens' Action Party, Hontiveros also works alongside National President Rafaela David to direct the party's progressive legislative agenda and lead opposition coalitions on the national stage.

Operating in a fiercely polarized political landscape, former Vice President Leni Robredo has maintained a reputation for decency and moral clarity. Her commitment to marginalized sectors, rooted in her background as a human rights lawyer, has earned her deep public trust. Through her flagship anti-poverty program, Angat Buhay, she helps empower underserved communities by connecting them directly with the private sector and nonprofit organizations rather than relying solely on government assistance. Now serving as mayor of Naga City, Robredo continues to champion good governance, poverty alleviation, and grassroots empowerment beyond the national stage.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte secured an unprecedented third term with over one million votes, the highest garnered by any elected official in the city's history. She is considered a highly influential figure in Philippine politics due to her ability to manage the country's wealthiest and most populous city, and her globally recognized leadership in environmental sustainability and human rights. Her administration has achieved consecutive "clean audit" or unqualified opinions from the Commission on Audit (COA), setting a benchmark for accountability that fuels calls for her to run for higher national office. She serves as the National Chairperson of the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP), giving her a strong platform to influence local government systems and urban development policies nationwide.

As Archbishop of Manila and the highest-ranking Catholic prelate in the country's most influential archdiocese, Cardinal Jose Advincula serves as a moral compass for millions of Filipinos. He is most known as a "listening shepherd from the peripheries," and recognized for his humble leadership, grassroots pastoral care, and his track record of establishing mission stations in remote, impoverished areas. His voice carries weight on issues ranging from social justice and poverty to family life, governance, education, and national reconciliation. His ability to shape public opinion, civic engagement, and moral discourse remains significant.

Batangas Second District Representative Gerville Luistro gained national prominence for her role as the lead prosecutor in the high-profile impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte and her sharp questioning during the House Quad Committee hearings investigating the previous administration's war on drugs and Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) operations. She became recognized as the "interpolator ng bayan" (the nation's questioner) due to her command of the law, calm demeanor, and unbending principle while leading the prosecution in the House. Before entering Congress, she built a strong background in law as a state counsel, a consultant for the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Witness Protection Program, and head of the investigation team for the Special Presidential Task Force under the Arroyo administration.

Senator Allan Peter Cayetano is a polarizing figure in Philippine politics due to his recent involvement in high-profile Senate leadership disputes and major government investigations. His political maneuvers and associations with former Duterte-era allies consistently keep him in the public eye regarding major national debates, including legal matters concerning the International Criminal Court. Known for his combative communication style, he uses media platforms and public speaking to control how political issues are framed to the public.

As Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Jonvic Remulla has administrative authority over local government units, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). He is a member of the Remulla clan, which has a long-standing alliance with the Marcoses and has massive political stronghold in Cavite for decades. Together with his brother, Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla, serving as the Ombudsman, they form a formidable duo that heavily influences the administration's agenda. The Secretary’s political weight and governance experience have made him a frequently discussed contender for higher national positions, including the presidency.

Appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as Director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in February 2026, Atty. Melvin Matibag wields the full authority of the state to investigate and combat high-profile crimes, corruption, cybercrime, organized criminal networks, and threats to our national security. Under his leadership, the NBI has taken on some of the country's highest-profile investigations and operations, including those involving Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, Jay Sonza, Mike Defensor, and large-scale citizenship laundering syndicates. Previously, Matibag served as Secretary General of PDP-Laban and acting Cabinet Secretary under former President Rodrigo Duterte, giving him extensive connections across the Philippine political landscape.

As Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Vince Dizon spearheaded a major agency cleanup to investigate multibillion-peso anomalies to uncover hundreds of "ghost projects" and irregularities within the government's flood control program. In January 2026, he implemented a massive nationwide reshuffle involving 12 of the 17 regional directors to ensure transparency and accountability. He also established stricter budget rules and pledged to blacklist and file graft charges against non-compliant or erring contractors to restore public trust in the agency. Dizon, who previously served as Presidential Adviser on Flagship Programs and Projects and more recently as Transportation Secretary, played a key role in implementing infrastructure under the Duterte administration’s Build, Build, Build program. He was also a prominent figure in the government’s Covid-19 pandemic response.

After Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro, Jr. once again took the helm of the country's Defense portfolio, it was to be expected that he'd be formidable. His extensive work in boosting Manila's deterrence measures against belligerent foreign powers is highlighted by his strides in modernizing the military, which has been, for years, often regarded as one of the weakest in the region. This is due to limited power projection and underfunded modernization efforts. Teodoro has aggressively pursued Horizon 2 and 3 of the Revised AFP Modernization Program which essentially secures more advanced maritime, air, and cybersecurity assets for the Philippines. He was also at the forefront of sealing the landmark Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement that allows the ease of entry of troops on each other's soil.

Frederick Go brings 35 years of corporate experience as the first major private sector tycoon to head the country's Department of Finance as Manila is pressured to create more jobs and boost its fiscal strength. Go has actively pursued to secure the lower end of the government's growth target of about five to six percent amid economic headwinds. He is also at the forefront of boosting the country's business climate to court foreign investor for high-impact sectors that include energy, security, infrastructure, and local industries. He previously served as special assistant to the President for investment and economic affairs.

Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela is best known as the outspoken spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the West Philippine Sea. He gained national and international prominence for his communication efforts to expose Chinese aggression, maritime bullying, and illegal activities within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. He pioneered the PCG's "transparency strategy," using social media, live press briefings, and international media to document and broadcast incursions by the China Coast Guard. For his "distinguished and commendable competency, courage, and patriotism," Tarriela was awarded the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

As Undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and Malacañang Palace Press Office, Atty. Claire Castro acts as a decisive voice for the administration, actively communicating national policies, addressing controversies, and countering misinformation as a Palace spokesperson. She is known for her fearless rhetoric and ability to control the narrative. Her background as a trial lawyer and broadcaster allows her to break down complex public policies into practical, easily understood language. Long before her Palace role, she built a massive public following (earning the moniker "The People's Lawyer") by offering free legal education and commentaries through radio and her widely followed YouTube channel.

As president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Archbishop Gilbert Garcera is one of the leading voices of the Catholic Church in the country. He has positioned the Church as a proactive moral beacon amid growing public distrust in governance. He is widely recognized as a champion of synodality—the push to make the Catholic Church more collaborative, participatory, and open to its followers. Under Garcera's leadership, the CBCP has broadened its focus to tackle the modern realities affecting ordinary Filipinos. The prelate also plays a key role in linking the local Philippine Church to the Vatican. He recently traveled to Rome to seal high-level appointments with Pope Leo XVI, strengthening Asian representation within the global Church hierarchy.

Education Secretary and former Senator Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara's 18-year legislative track record includes prolific work reforming the country's basic education cycle via the K-12 program during his time in the Senate and championing free tuition in state universities and colleges. This comes at a time where Manila is hard-pressed to keep up with its regional and global neighbors as Filipino students continue to fare poorly in basic subjects and have historically lagged in assessments such as the Programme for International Student Assessment. He is pursuing a 10-year Learning Recovery plan that also involves streamlining the senior high school curriculum by removing redundant courses, and to address the long-standing classroom backlog issue.

Profiles written by the Esquire Philippines team

Art by Igi Talao

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