Rodrigo Duterte

Rodrigo Duterte, born on March 28, 1945, in Maasin, Leyte, is a prominent Filipino lawyer and politician who made history as the 16th president of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022. He is notable for being the first president from Mindanao and the oldest individual to assume the presidency at the age of seventy-one. Duterte's political journey began in Davao City, where he served multiple terms as mayor, transforming the city from a crime-ridden area into a peaceful and investor-friendly locale.

After earning a degree in political science from the Lyceum of the Philippines University in 1968 and a law degree from San Beda College of Law in 1972, Duterte began his career as a lawyer and prosecutor. His political ascent was marked by his election as vice mayor and later as mayor of Davao City following the 1986 People Power Revolution. Over his more than twenty-two years in office, he won seven terms, establishing a reputation for his tough stance on crime.

Duterte's presidential campaign in 2016 was characterized by a controversial focus on combating the illegal drug trade, which included a war on drugs that drew significant international scrutiny. His administration also prioritized infrastructure development, economic reforms, and a proposed shift to a federal government system. Despite his polarizing policies, he maintained a high domestic approval rating throughout his presidency.

In October 2021, Duterte announced his retirement from politics, although he initially declared his candidacy for vice president in the 2022 elections. His political career has been marred by allegations of human rights violations, particularly concerning extrajudicial killings linked to his anti-drug campaign. Following an investigation by the International Criminal Court, he became the first Philippine president to face an international tribunal, leading to his arrest in March 2025.

Despite these challenges, Duterte was re-elected as mayor of Davao City in 2025, although he could not assume office due to his legal circumstances. His son, Baste, currently serves as the acting mayor in his stead. Duterte's legacy remains a subject of intense debate, reflecting both his popularity and the controversies surrounding his administration.