When President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office in 2016 as the Philippines’ 16th president, he promised to end illegal drugs, criminality, and corruption within six months. Six years later, it’s time to review the Duterte legacy and assess the administration’s achievements and challenges.
Drug War Impact in the Duterte Administration
One of the most controversial parts of the Duterte legacy is the aggressive campaign against illegal drugs. As of March 31, 2022, the administration dismantled over 1,100 drug dens and laboratories, cleared nearly 25,000 barangays, and arrested nearly 15,000 high-value targets, including government employees. The campaign seized P76.17 billion worth of shabu and rescued thousands of minors involved in the drug trade.
However, more than 6,200 deaths were recorded in anti-drug operations, highlighting the campaign’s contentious nature. Learn more from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
Infrastructure Milestones Under Duterte’s Leadership
The Duterte administration’s landmark program, Build, Build, Build, focused on expanding infrastructure to boost economic growth. By December 2021, it completed hundreds of airport and seaport projects, over 34,000 kilometers of roads, and thousands of bridges. The program also initiated the construction of the country’s first subway system.
For details on ongoing infrastructure projects, visit the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Legislative Achievements During Duterte’s Presidency
During Duterte’s term, significant laws were passed, including the TRAIN Law, CREATE Act, Anti-Terrorism Law, and Bangsamoro Organic Law establishing the BARMM. Social reforms such as the Universal Health Care Act and Free Tertiary Education Act expanded public services.
Explore more about these laws on the Official Gazette.
Security, Peace, and Justice Progress
The Duterte administration increased military funding and assets, strengthened defense, and facilitated the surrender of thousands of communist rebels. The normalization program in Bangsamoro saw a significant rise in decommissioned combatants, contributing to peace efforts.
For updates on peace programs, visit the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.
Social Development and Economic Initiatives
Programs supporting farmers, micro-businesses, and poverty alleviation mark notable achievements of Duterte’s presidency. Tax reforms increased government revenue while easing tax burdens for many. The administration’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic involved extensive social protection programs and healthcare facility expansion.
Learn about economic recovery efforts from the National Economic and Development Authority.
Final Thoughts on the Duterte Legacy
The Duterte legacy reflects a mix of bold initiatives and controversies. Infrastructure, legislation, social reforms, and peace efforts stand as lasting impacts, while debates continue over human rights and governance approaches.
Ken Lurd, born Ken Martin, is a seasoned writer and content creator from the Philippines with over two decades of experience in storytelling, digital media, and creative strategy. Now in his 40s, Ken has built a solid reputation for blending real-life insight with engaging narratives that resonate with Filipino and global audiences alike.
From lifestyle blogs and social commentaries to thought-provoking essays and branded content, Ken’s work reflects depth, authenticity, and a passion for connecting with readers. Whether he’s writing under the name Ken Lurd or speaking at content workshops, his mission remains the same: to inform, inspire, and ignite meaningful conversations.
When he’s not writing, Ken enjoys local travel, coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions, and mentoring up-and-coming creators across the country.
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