Gutter politics: The worst catfights of 2013

MANILA, Philippines What do battered wives, partying concubines, and old debts have to do with governance? Not much, but politicos went there anyway.

An election year with the biggest corruption scandal and the worlds worst typhoon could have brought out the best in statesmen. But in 2013, politicians took black propaganda, congressional catfights, and disaster politicking to an all-time low.

Instead of rising above party politics and personal grudges, the so-called distinguished gentlemen and ladies slugged it out and dragged their rivals private lives, including dead parents and troubled children, into the fray.

While petty feuds are nothing new in the circus that is Philippine politics, the level of mudslinging was unprecedented, coming from the biggest names, the highest ranks of government, and the brightest minds during the direst of crises.

For voters past and future, we relive the cringe-worthy moments of the people who landed themselves in the Hall of Shame. It was an eventful year, but these newsmakers packed it with their own action, tragedy, and comedy.

Here are the top catfights of 2013, from bad to worse. Move over, Jerry Springer, this is Philippine politics at its worst.

(Graphics by Mara Mercado)

6. Koko Pimentel vs Migz Zubiri: Bickering enters the bedroom

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Gutter politics: The worst catfights of 2013