MANILA, Philippines: After his recent tirade against his successor, former president Rodrigo Duterte seemed to have softened his stance on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Duterte, during a prayer rally held in Cebu City on Sunday, February 25, expressed his support for President Marcos Jr.’s push for Charter change. He stated that he is “comfortable supporting the President” as long as the proposed changes are not intended to benefit the incumbent.
In both English and Filipino, Duterte said, “I’m okay with it as long as it is not intended to benefit the incumbent.”
Furthermore, Duterte mentioned that he has not witnessed Marcos Jr. committing any significant mistakes. He clarified, “Maybe those below him, but him, I haven’t heard anything. So, I continue to support him.”
It is worth noting that Duterte had previously referred to Marcos Jr. as a “drug addict.” The President attributed this statement to fentanyl, a drug that the former president used to take.
While Duterte’s recent remarks may come as a surprise to some, it is essential to understand the context and dynamics of Philippine politics. The relationship between Duterte and Marcos Jr. has been complex, often marked by both support and criticism.
Charter change, or the amendment of the Philippine Constitution, has been a topic of debate and discussion for many years. It aims to address various issues and concerns in the country’s governance system. President Marcos Jr.’s push for Charter change has garnered attention and sparked both support and opposition.
With Duterte’s softened stance on President Marcos Jr., it is evident that the former president is willing to put aside personal differences and prioritize the potential benefits of Charter change. This shift in perspective showcases Duterte’s pragmatic approach to governance and his willingness to support initiatives that he believes will benefit the country.
However, it is important to approach Duterte’s statements with caution and critical thinking. While he expresses support for President Marcos Jr., he also acknowledges that he has not witnessed any significant mistakes committed by him personally. This implies that there may be concerns regarding the actions of those working under President Marcos Jr.
The mention of fentanyl in relation to Marcos Jr. raises questions about the former president’s past drug use and its potential impact on his leadership. It is crucial to recognize that the use of fentanyl, a potent opioid pain medication, can have significant effects on an individual’s health and decision-making abilities.
As international observers, it is essential to contextualize these statements within the broader political landscape of the Philippines. The country has a complex history, including the rule of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the father of President Marcos Jr., which was marred by allegations of human rights abuses and corruption.
Understanding the intricacies of Philippine politics requires knowledge of local laws, customs, and historical events. By doing so, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the motivations and dynamics behind Duterte’s statements and actions.
In conclusion, former President Duterte’s softened stance on President Marcos Jr. and his support for Charter change highlight his pragmatic approach to governance. While his statements may raise questions and warrant further analysis, it is crucial to consider the broader context of Philippine politics to fully comprehend the significance of these remarks.
Source: The Manila Times
