The DU30 enigma
Published Feb 5, 2020 12:00 am
CHAFF FROM THE GRAIN
By HECTOR R. R. VILLANUEVA
Hector R. R. Villanueva
After three years, his satisfaction and trust ratings continue to peak which is contrary to conventional wisdom in Philippine politics.
The masses adore him in spite of their misery, and are tolerant of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s outrageous and unconventional actuations, decisions, and colorful language.
The Chief Executive remains extremely popular considering that things around him tend to be flat and wanting a second wind and an adrenalin rush.
Nevertheless, there is optimism in the air and an unrequited confidence that PDU30 will deliver on his promises.
What then is that enigmatic quality in President Duterte that is so exhilarating and enjoyable to many and disturbing to the few?
First, the masses love DU30’s anti-oligarch and anti-rich crusades which previous presidents have always avoided.
With the skillful use of the law and intelligence network, President Duterte is able to go after erring oligarchs and critics without having to resort to martial law.
The President’s fearlessness against the economic power of the rich, albeit selective, is what endears him to the masses.
Additionally, he uses generously state funds to aid widows of soldiers and government assistance and relief to the needy.
Second, unemployment is alleviated by widespread construction projects and infrastructure all over the county.
Though foreign private fixed investments have been slow to enter, “Build, Build, Build” continues unabated.
Accelerated infra spending by the government has reduced poverty in an enhanced countryside development.
Unfortunately, the war against drug trafficking appears open-ended and unconquerable.
Corruption seems endemic and unstoppable, and killings for various reasons are a daily occurrence.
In this respect, President Duterte has failed to transform people’s ethos, moral values, and attitudes though an atmosphere of fear has been created.
On the other hand, the oligarchy is well entrenched and impregnable, and the system is overwhelming.
Without constitutional reforms, the status quo stays.
When all is said and done, the masses love what President Duterte is doing, and the will continue to endear him to the public.
However, after decades of political independence, we are still nation building.
You be the judge.
“In politics, being ridiculous is more damaging than being extreme.” — Ray Hattersley
Hector R. R. Villanueva
After three years, his satisfaction and trust ratings continue to peak which is contrary to conventional wisdom in Philippine politics.
The masses adore him in spite of their misery, and are tolerant of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s outrageous and unconventional actuations, decisions, and colorful language.
The Chief Executive remains extremely popular considering that things around him tend to be flat and wanting a second wind and an adrenalin rush.
Nevertheless, there is optimism in the air and an unrequited confidence that PDU30 will deliver on his promises.
What then is that enigmatic quality in President Duterte that is so exhilarating and enjoyable to many and disturbing to the few?
First, the masses love DU30’s anti-oligarch and anti-rich crusades which previous presidents have always avoided.
With the skillful use of the law and intelligence network, President Duterte is able to go after erring oligarchs and critics without having to resort to martial law.
The President’s fearlessness against the economic power of the rich, albeit selective, is what endears him to the masses.
Additionally, he uses generously state funds to aid widows of soldiers and government assistance and relief to the needy.
Second, unemployment is alleviated by widespread construction projects and infrastructure all over the county.
Though foreign private fixed investments have been slow to enter, “Build, Build, Build” continues unabated.
Accelerated infra spending by the government has reduced poverty in an enhanced countryside development.
Unfortunately, the war against drug trafficking appears open-ended and unconquerable.
Corruption seems endemic and unstoppable, and killings for various reasons are a daily occurrence.
In this respect, President Duterte has failed to transform people’s ethos, moral values, and attitudes though an atmosphere of fear has been created.
On the other hand, the oligarchy is well entrenched and impregnable, and the system is overwhelming.
Without constitutional reforms, the status quo stays.
When all is said and done, the masses love what President Duterte is doing, and the will continue to endear him to the public.
However, after decades of political independence, we are still nation building.
You be the judge.