3 Potential Ripples of the Duterte Phenomenon in Asia and the Pacific

The May 9, 2016 national elections in the Philippines that saw the rise of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte to power drew the active participation of the electorate in the intense debates, thanks in large measure to social media. Exchanges were so passionate at all levels that relationships were strained even among families and friends. When Duterte was vocal to his displeasure to statements from foreign observers, some fear the country's relationship with other countries would be strained as well.

But first, who is Duterte and why is he popular?

Presumptive President Rodrigo Duterte
Photo taken from the video by Matt Wilkie

Many analysts agree that the so-called Duterte phenomenon has been brought about by the gnawing dissatisfaction among the Filipinos about the current administration, most specifically the Aquinos. In the past 30 years, two members of the Aquino clan have led the country -- Corazon "Cory" Aquino (1986 to 1992), the wife of Ninoy Aquino who was gunned down at the Manila International Airport in 1983, and Noynoy Aquino (2010-2016), their son.