The autumn of a leader

RODRIGO Roa Duterte came from nowhere in 2016 and was not considered "winnable," but he won on account of a very unique messaging that resonated with the masses. Duterte was, after all, the revolt of the masses finally finding their collective voice. Registering as a different kind of leader, someone who was truly like them, his base was strong on the stretch. Five years and six months after, the base had weakened and floundered because of the way he won (throwing out the playbook) and being unable to build a party that could carry the day for him as he sailed into the sunset.

PRRD's term was all about a leader pushing everyone. It was a very leader-centric approach, hurling presidential might against oligarchs and institutions that had long placed Juan de la Cruz at a disadvantage. Decisive to the core, delivering more than just lip service, showing a lot of heart for Filipinos, carrying the flag in domestic as well as international fronts and so much more. But in that period, political reform, political party reengineering were not made. He still believed that he could ouido through the political waves and come out the winner. His permanent campaigning had assured a high approval rating. PRRD was clear who the enemies were, and he kept reminding the voters.