Understanding the Support for Duterte in the Philippines

When discussing the reasons behind the continued support for Rodrigo Duterte among the Filipino people, it is essential to delve into the complex factors that contribute to this phenomenon. Despite the solid evidence pointing towards his involvement in the killings of suspected criminals, Duterte still enjoys public support. This article aims to explore the reasons behind this support and the validity of the available data.

Data and Survey Claims

Claims about public support for Duterte often come with caveats and challenges. When seeking data to support such a claim, it is crucial to consider the legitimacy and sponsorship of any survey or study. For instance, a survey company like SWSrsquo;s results depend on the sponsor's request and interest. The survey's questions and publication options are influenced by the person or party requesting the survey. Therefore, any survey supporting a particular viewpoint must be scrutinized, especially if it is sponsored by someone with a vested interest.

The Utility and Bias of Surveys

Surveys play a significant role in shaping public opinion and understanding political standing. However, the results are not just about rankings. They offer insights into a candidate's strengths, weaknesses, and areas that require more campaigning. The decision to publish the original survey results is often influenced by the sponsor's interests. For example, if a candidate is not performing well in a survey, the sponsor might request modified results to protect their position.

The Context of Duterte's Support

Several factors explain why many Filipinos continue to support Duterte despite the evidence of killings. Firstly, Duterte's politicians who did not back his candidacy were added to the fictitious PDEA list, which was irresponsibly publicized for propaganda purposes. This led to either the death or exile of some of these politicians. In the 2022 mid-term elections, Bong Go and Bato received top votes, indicating a shift in public support towards Duterte's preferred candidates. The slogan, ldquo;If you don't vote for Cayetano, don't vote for me,rdquo; clearly shows the interconnectedness of political support within Duterte's circle.

The 2022 Presidential Election

The 2022 presidential election saw a strategic shift in political campaigns. Duterte first had his partners, Bato and Bong Go, file their candidacy for president and vice-president, respectively. Initially, Bong Go's popularity favored him over BBM for vice-president, but Duterte later directed Bato to withdraw his candidacy to increase Bong Go's chances. Despite the public backlash, there were clear intentions behind these strategic moves to secure his political legacy.

The Erosion of Duterte's Support: Key Decisions and Their Impact

Key decisions by Duterte and his allies have eroded his base's support. For instance, Sara, a potential VP candidate, ultimately failed due to the evidence of her involvement in irregular activities. The support for Bong Go is also scrutinized as he is considered an outsider. The budget allocated by the DEPED was also used for dubious rallies during periods of alleged secretive fund allocation. These actions are perceived as betrayals by the public, leading to a diminishing trust in his leadership.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the continued support for Duterte requires a nuanced view of the political dynamics and survey data. While there is evidence of killings and questionable actions, the complexity of political alliances, strategic decisions, and public trust deeply influence the current sentiment. As more evidence emerges and public opinion changes, the landscape of support for Duterte may continue to evolve.