Is President Duterte the Best President in Philippine History? An Analysis

The ongoing debate about Rodrigo Duterte's presidency in the Philippines often revolves around whether he has been a positive leader or not. With skyrocketing national debt and allegations of human rights violations, many citizens question his legacy. However, it is essential to evaluate his administration's contributions alongside the performance of his predecessors.

Background: The Duterte Presidency

Rodrigo Duterte took office in 2016, promising to eradicate drugs and combat crime. His administration implemented a controversial drug war, which claimed thousands of lives. The government also introduced policies aimed at improving infrastructure, economic development, and social welfare. These measures, however, have been accompanied by persistent human rights concerns and financial challenges.

Key Achievements of Duterte's Presidency

Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development

Duterte's administration has made significant strides in economic growth. The country's economy has shown resilience during his tenure, with the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) steadily increasing. Additionally, Duterte's government has invested heavily in infrastructure projects, including the construction of new roads, bridges, and airports. These initiatives have improved connectivity and facilitated trade and commerce.

Social Welfare Programmes

The government has launched several social welfare programmes to address poverty and inequality. Programs such as Pantay Paggawa and Pantay Gobyerno have provided support to low-income families. Moreover, the social isolation brought on by the pandemic led to the expansion of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, a conditional cash transfer scheme aimed at reducing poverty and improving health and education outcomes for marginalized communities.

Challenges and Controversies

Human Rights Violations

One of the most significant controversies surrounding Duterte's presidency is the widespread allegations of human rights violations related to the drug war efforts. Critics argue that extrajudicial killings and torture have become systemic, violating basic human rights. These allegations have fueled protests and international condemnation, leading to investigations by human rights organizations and foreign governments.

Economic Debts

Despite claims of economic growth, the country's national debt has surged under Duterte's tenure. In 2019, the total national debt was approximately P10.5 trillion (Philippine pesos), which is a staggering increase from previous years. The government's commitments to infrastructure and social welfare programs, combined with the costs of the drug war, have placed a significant financial burden on the country's budget.

Comparison with Past Presidents

When comparing Duterte's presidency to those of his predecessors, it becomes evident that each administration faced unique challenges. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, for instance, had to deal with political scandals and economic turmoil. Benigno Aquino III, on the other hand, improved the country's economic performance but faced criticism over corruption scandals.

While it is undeniable that Duterte has made significant strides in certain areas, the prevalence of human rights violations and growing economic debt pose significant concerns. Moreover, his ability to balance economic growth with social welfare programmes and address human rights issues remains a contentious topic.

Conclusion

The question of whether Rodrigo Duterte is the best president in Philippine history is complex and multifaceted. His administration has delivered on several fronts, including economic growth and infrastructure development. However, the country's intensifying human rights issues and rising national debt raise serious questions about the long-term legacy of his presidency.

To achieve a more comprehensive evaluation, it is crucial to consider the immediate and long-term impacts of his policies. Duterte's role in shaping the future of the Philippines will likely be a subject of ongoing debate, as the country continues to navigate its complex social and economic landscape.