Philippine Elections 2024: Duterte's Performance Overshadows Marcos

Rajiv Sharma

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

4.2

Share

Duterte's Popularity and its Impact on the 2024 Elections

Duterte's presidency was marked by high approval ratings, particularly in its initial years. This unwavering support, built on a populist platform and strongman image, presents a significant challenge and opportunity for other candidates in the 2024 elections. His fervent supporters, often associated with specific political parties and groups like the PDP-Laban, could play a crucial role in determining the election outcome. Their loyalty and mobilization efforts are significant factors to consider.

• Key policy achievements of Duterte's administration that resonate with voters: The "war on drugs," while controversial, garnered substantial support among certain demographics who felt it addressed a critical societal issue. Infrastructure projects, like the "Build, Build, Build" program, also resonated with those who saw tangible improvements.
• Controversial policies and their influence on public opinion: The human rights implications of the "war on drugs" and the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic have created a divided public opinion, with some staunchly defending Duterte's actions and others vehemently criticizing them.
• Duterte's endorsements and their potential sway on undecided voters: Any endorsement from Duterte carries considerable weight, potentially swaying undecided voters and significantly impacting the election's trajectory. His influence extends beyond his direct endorsements, shaping the political discourse and influencing the choices of his supporters.

Marcos Jr.'s Campaign Strategies in the Shadow of Duterte

Marcos Jr.'s campaign strategy must navigate the complex landscape shaped by Duterte's legacy. He walks a tightrope, attempting to distance himself from Duterte's more controversial policies while simultaneously appealing to Duterte's substantial base of support. This delicate balancing act requires careful messaging and strategic alliances.

• Key talking points of Marcos Jr.'s campaign: Economic recovery, unity, and good governance are likely key talking points. He aims to present a vision of a stable and prosperous Philippines, contrasting with perceptions of Duterte's divisive policies.
• Analysis of Marcos Jr.'s public image and how it contrasts with Duterte's: Marcos Jr. projects a more measured and less confrontational image compared to Duterte's outspoken style. This strategic contrast aims to appeal to a broader segment of the electorate.
• Marcos Jr.'s attempts to garner support from different segments of the population: His campaign needs to attract voters who are critical of Duterte's policies while simultaneously retaining the support of Duterte's loyalists, a difficult task demanding a nuanced approach.

Public Opinion and the Duterte-Marcos Dynamic

Public opinion polls and surveys provide invaluable insights into the complex relationship between Duterte's legacy and public perception of Marcos Jr.'s candidacy. These surveys reveal the extent to which Duterte's performance shapes voters' attitudes towards Marcos Jr. and other political candidates.

• Key findings from relevant polls and surveys: Recent polls likely indicate a significant segment of the population still supports Duterte's policies, and their views on Marcos Jr. are directly influenced by this support. Conversely, other segments may hold negative opinions of Duterte and extend these views to Marcos Jr.
• Public sentiment regarding Duterte's key policies: Understanding public sentiment towards specific policies, such as the "war on drugs" or the handling of the pandemic, is critical to understanding voter behavior and preferences.
• Public perception of Marcos Jr.'s qualifications and leadership potential: Public perception of Marcos Jr.'s leadership capabilities, independent of Duterte's influence, remains a vital factor influencing voting choices.

The Role of Media and Social Media in Shaping Public Perception

The media, both traditional and social, plays a crucial role in shaping public perception of both Duterte and Marcos Jr. The dissemination of information, and, significantly, disinformation and propaganda, can drastically impact voter behavior and influence the electoral outcome.

• Examples of media coverage impacting public perception: News reports, analysis pieces, and opinion editorials significantly influence public understanding of both figures and their policies. The framing and emphasis of certain narratives can dramatically shape public opinion.
• Analysis of social media trends related to both candidates: Social media platforms are battlegrounds for narratives surrounding both candidates, with different groups promoting specific narratives and engaging in targeted campaigns.
• The impact of fake news and misinformation campaigns: The spread of fake news and misinformation is a significant concern, potentially swaying public opinion in ways that are not based on factual information.

Conclusion: Philippine Elections 2024: Duterte's Influence Remains a Defining Factor

In conclusion, the 2024 Philippine elections are profoundly shaped by Rodrigo Duterte's legacy. His enduring popularity and controversial policies cast a long shadow over Marcos Jr.'s campaign, impacting public perception and influencing voter decisions. Duterte's performance remains a defining factor in the political landscape, making it crucial to understand this dynamic to fully grasp the complexities of the upcoming elections. Follow the 2024 Philippine elections closely to understand the impact of Duterte's legacy on the candidates and the future of the Philippines. Share your thoughts and analysis in the comments below! Understanding the impact of Duterte's legacy on the upcoming Philippine elections is critical for informed citizenship.