The Brief No. 22
10 May 2022
The election of President Rodrigo Duterte in June 2016 caught many, particularly outside Philippines, by surprise.
The question most asked at the time was why him? Duterte a maverick with a loose tongue did not fit a profile of a president.
However, Philippines had a number of socio-political and economic challenges at the time. The scourge of drugs, crime, economic downturn and lawlessness needed a strongman’s approach. Duterte’s attitude and messaging particularly towards the drugs lords resonated with the masses.
The emergence of Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the son of the former Dictator Ferdinand Marcos is yet another surprise in the history of elections in Philippines.
Marcos Jr. also known as Bongbong, is set to win 2022 Presidential elections. What is behind his popularity:
First, notwithstanding the association with his father’s dictatorship; there is an element of nostalgia in Philippines. Filipinos are not yearning for the return of dictatorship; they want better economic conditions which many feel existed during the presidency of Marcos senior. It is hoped that Marcos Jr. will bring economic changes in Philippines.
Second, Marcos Jr. has chosen Duterte’s daughter, Sarah Duterte, as his Deputy Presidential candidate. This has made some in Philippines to believe that they will be getting “two for the price of one” i.e. Continuation of Reforms, particularly fight against crime and lawlessness which are advocated by President Duterte and economic revival promised by Marcos Jr.
Whilst all of the above might be true; the elections of Marcos will also help “cleanse” his family’s image.
In conclusion, one aspect remains interesting in Philippines’ politics:
The young people who form large part of the electorate, seem indifferent to historical politics of the country. Many are unperturbed by Marcos’s past and and his privileged upbringing.
Afrasid is available for commentary and analysis