De Lima on the popularity of the Dutertes: ‘It’s a reflection of Filipinos’ frustration’
Metro Manila, Philippines – Former Sen. Leila de Lima believes that while the Duterte family remains popular, public support is “eroding.”
In a recent interview on Zoom In with Menchu Macapagal, De Lima said that this enduring appeal stems from Filipinos' frustrations over systemic failures in governance.
“That is something, you know, his popularity, especially before, has always baffled me. Even at the height of the killings under the war on drugs,” De Lima shared, referring to former President Rodrigo Duterte.
She adds that many Filipinos saw Duterte’s harsh policies, like the war on drugs and extrajudicial killings, as immediate solutions to deep-rooted societal problems.
However, De Lima warned that these “quick fixes” could lead to dangerous long-term consequences, particularly a breakdown in law and order.
"Dapat nilang isipin that’s not at all the right remedy,” De Lima said.
[Translation: People need to realize that this is not the right remedy.]
“Yes, quick fix, yes it's there, but look at the long-term consequences that it would cost to a society. It will gradually result in the breakdown of law and order if we just take justice into our own hands," the former senator added, calling on the public to reconsider the consequences of supporting such approaches.
With his “change is coming” campaign in 2016, Duterte captured the support of Filipinos who were impatient with rising crime and supposed government inefficiency.
His tough stance on criminality and his promise to eradicate drugs in the country within six months of office also resonated with many Filipinos frustrated by slow government action.
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