The Duterte Administration: Governance and Management Style

On April 19, journalist and best-selling author Marites D. Vitug gave an insightful presentation on Duterte’s presidential style. At a round table discussion held by the US-Philippines Society in cooperation with the JHU SAIS Southeast Asia Studies Program, Marites Vitug discussed the inner workings of his cabinet and the role of media.

In the first nine months, Duterte’s pronouncements against illegal drugs and pursuit of an independent foreign policy gained acceptance domestically while generating criticism by international media. Duterte’s ambitious agenda on infrastructure,10-point socio-economic reforms, lower personal taxes for low to moderate income households and competitive corporate rates, are moving through the legislative process. Based on latest surveys, Duterte’s public approval rating remains high through his first year in office.