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PNP chief confirms invitation to meeting of Duterte supporters pushing for revolutionary gov’t
August 22, 2020Martin Sadongdong

Police General Archie Francisco Gamboa, chief of the Philippine National Police, has confirmed that he received an invitation from a group of supporters of President Duterte to attend a meeting that will push for the establishment of a revolutionary government.

The Video: RevGov pushed by Duterte supporters is dictatorship
Sep 2, 2020 ABS-CBN News
The revolutionary government that supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte are pushing equates to “dictatorship”, senator Gordon said Wednesday.

‘It’s a dictatorship:’ Senators oppose discussion of RevGov bid
Christia Marie Ramos - INQUIRER.net September 02, 2020
Several senators on Wednesday “squarely” opposed the idea of discussing the call made by certain groups to establish a revolutionary government.
President Rodrigo Duterte, who earlier dismissed the call for a revolutionary government, recently said that it should be discussed publicly and not in secrecy.

Gordon on revolutionary gov’t: it’s dictatorship, plain and simple
September 2, 2020 Hannah Torregoza
Senators on Wednesday reiterated their opposition to revive discussions on the proposal to establish a revolutionary government in the country saying such moves would only divide the nation.

The Video: Duterte open to discuss revolutionary gov't after disowning group behind proposal
Sep 1, 2020 ANC 24/7
President Rodrigo Duterte now appears to be open to the proposal of a revolutionary government after rejecting the idea being pushed by a group of his supporters.

Lorenzana receives invite to revolutionary gov’t meeting
August 23, 2020 Martin Sadongdong
Like Philippine National Police chief Police Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana was also invited to attend a meeting by a group of President Duterte supporters pushing for a revolutionary government.

VP finds funny that revolutionary gov’t supporters turn to her after Duterte snub
August 30, 2020 Raymund Antonio
It is unlikely that Vice President Leni Robredo would accept the offer of a group of President Duterte‘s supporters to lead the revolutionary government.

VP not interested in revolutionary gov’t, calls the move ‘illegal’
August 29, 2020 Raymund Antonio
Vice President Leni Robredo has no interest to take part in the move to establish a revolutionary government being pushed by President Duterte’s supporters to amend the Constitution.

‘Perpetual chaos’ if revolutionary gov’t pushed – business group
August 28, 2020 Ralf Rivas
'It does not really matter what system, whether unitary or federal or versions thereof – what is important is the actual practice of good governance,' says the Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands

LOOK BACK: Campaigns to set up a revolutionary gov't in the Philippines
August 27, 2020 Michelle Abad
It was during president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s time that opposition groups came up with concrete models of a revolutionary government

Duterte and allies turn cold on revolutionary gov't, but lawyers urge vigilance
August 27, 2020 Lian Buan
'The greatest sin we can commit right now is to dismiss or ignore the true dangers these repeated calls for 'revgov' pose,' says the Philippine Bar Association

DFA chief Locsin tells RevGov backers: 'Just form cheering squad, clap outside Palace'
ABS-CBN News Aug 26 2020 - with Video
President Rodrigo Duterte's supporters who are urging him to head a "revolutionary government" should instead "form a cheering squad" and clap outside Malacañang, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr said Wednesday.

Former military, police officials reject call for Duterte-led revolutionary government
August 26, 2020 Nikko Dizon
A revolutionary government brings about major changes in the country's institutions through 'authoritarian and undemocratic means,' the retired security officials say

Advocacy group ANI rejects rev gov
August 26, 2020 Martin Sadongdong
An advocacy group composed of retired military generals today rejected the call by supporters of President Duterte to create of a revolutionary government.

Palace respects PNP plan to investigate group behind revolutionary gov’t
August 26, 2020 Genalyn Kabiling
Malacañang said on Wednesday it respects the planned investigation by the Philippine of the National Police of persons behind the revolutionary government initiative despite the absence of imminent threat from the group.

Revolutionary government calls add fuel to the fire, not VP Leni - Akbayan Youth
August 25, 2020 Raymund Antonio
It’s not Vice President Leni Robredo’s words that add fuel to the fire, but it’s the calls from President Duterte’s supporters for a revolutionary government, a youth group said on Tuesday. Look also:
the Video: After laying down recommendations, Duterte tells Robredo not to add fuel to the fire
Aug 25, 2020 ANC 24/7
An irked President Duterte told Vice-President Leni Robredo to stop adding fuel to the fire after she slammed the apparent lack of leadership in the country's pandemic response.

Justice Secretary Guevarra thumbs down calls for revolutionary government
August 25, 2020 Lian Buan
But the justice secretary stops short of making a categorical answer if the calls for revolutionary government are illegal

PNP-CIDG to probe proponents of Duterte-led revolutionary gov't
August 25, 2020 Rambo Talabong
'Political stunts such as this are ill-timed, considering that we are in the midst of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic,' says Philippine National Police chief General Archie Gamboa

Governors reject call for ‘revolutionary government’
August 25, 2020 Rey Panaligan
The League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) has expressed its opposition to a move to establish a revolutionary government to pave the way for federalism in the country.

Guevarra opposes idea of revolutionary gov’t
August 25, 2020 Jeffrey Damicog
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Tuesday, Aug. 25, expressed disapproval over calls for the creation of a revolutionary government.

Duterte denies involvement in proposed revolutionary gov’t by supporters
August 25, 2020 Genalyn Kabiling
President Duterte said on Tuesday that he is not involved in the proposed establishment of the revolutionary government.

Renewed push for rev-gov 'untimely' during pandemic: DILG exec
ABS-CBN News Aug 25 2020 - with Video
The renewed call for a revolutionary government as the Philippines battles the COVID-19 pandemic is "very untimely," a government official who previously pushed for the proposal said Tuesday.

Group proposing revolutionary gov’t not liable for inciting to sedition - DILG
August 25, 2020 Chito Chavez
The group proposing the formation of a revolutionary government may not be cited for inciting sedition as its advocates are merely exhibiting their freedom of expression.

Calls for revolutionary gov’t could affect PH fiscal position
August 25, 2020 Hannah Torregoza
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said on Tuesday calls for a revolutionary government could affect the country’s fiscal position.

'Rev gov' finds little support from Duterte allies
ABS-CBN News Aug 24 2020 - with Video
President Rodrigo Duterte's supporters who are pushing for a revolutionary government find no love and support even from allies of the chief executive, whom they want to have extra powers.
An election lawyer also floats the possibility of Vice President Leni Robredo automatically assuming Duterte's post, should he heed his supporters' call.

‘Call for revolutionary gov’t’ illegal, unconstitutional’, says Lorenzana
August 24, 2020 Martin Sadongdong
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana revealed Monday that the group behind the push for the establishment of a revolutionary government should be investigated for possible violation of the law.

‘Revolutionary gov’t not a priority during pandemic; Duterte will step down in 2022,’ assures Roque
August 24, 2020 Argyll Cyrus Geducos
Malacañang has rejected the calls from private individuals for a revolutionary government, reminding the public of President Duterte’s desire to finish his term and pass the reign of power to his duly-elected successor in 2022.

Revolutionary gov’t call by pro-Duterte group assailed
August 24, 2020 Ben Rosario
The call of a pro-Duterte group for the establishment of a revolutionary government came under fire Monday, with lawmakers and prominent lawyers assailing the move as alarming, if not a glaring violation of national security laws.

Group behind revolutionary gov’t wants to suck up to President
August 24, 2020 Hannah Torregoza
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Monday expressed belief the group pushing for a revolutionary government merely wants to suck up to President Duterte.

Lawyers' group slams call for Duterte-led revolutionary government
August 23, 2020 Jodesz Gavilan
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines says ‘there is no legal, factual, practical, or moral basis’ for a revolutionary government led by President Rodrigo Duterte
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) on Sunday, August 23, said revived calls for a revolutionary government should be “discouraged and denounced” as there are other ways to address issues in the country.

Senators shoot down proposed revolutionary government
August 23, 2020 Hannah Torregoza
Senators have thumbed down proposals for the establishment of a revolutionary government, saying such plans would only promote disunity at a time the country is struggling to cope with a COVID-19 pandemic.

PNP says no to revolutionary gov’t
August 23, 2020 Aaron Recuenco
The Philippine National Police declared Sunday that it will not support any move to launch a revolutionary government being initiated by staunch supporters of President Duterte as it is a plain and simple violation of the Constitution.

Videos

Revolutionary gov’t too late as workable concept
August 23, 2020 Genalyn Kabiling
The proposed establishment of a revolutionary government is a “titillating idea” for academic discussion but may be too late as a “workable concept,” according to Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo.

Palace backs off from revolutionary gov’t proposal
August 23, 2020 Genalyn Kabiling
Malacañang distanced itself from the proposed establishment of a revolutionary government, saying the government is focused on addressing the coronavirus pandemic.

Leni: Revolutionary gov’t a huge nonsense
August 23, 2020 Dhel Nazario
Vice President Leni Robredo has dismissed the call for a revolutionary government from supporters of the administration, calling it a “huge nonsense.”

If Duterte declares revolutionary gov’t, Robredo becomes president
April 5, 2019 Mara Cepeda - with Video
'Once President Duterte declares a revolutionary government, he ceases to be President having divested himself of the presidency,' says opposition senatorial bet Romy Macalintal, a veteran election lawyer.
Vice President Leni Robredo will replace President Rodrigo Duterte as chief executive if the latter declares a revolutionary government
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The Videos:

PH Interior Undersecretary: We do not support groups calling for revolutionary gov't
Aug 25, 2020 ANC 24/7
The Department of the Interior and Local Government distances itself from the group calling for a revolutionary government in the Philippines. Interior Undersecretary Epimaco Densing says that the DILG office devoted to pushing for constitutional reforms is in no way connected to the People's National Coalition for Revolutionary Government and Charter Change. And despite pushing for the same initiative back in 2018, Densing says, making the shift now would be impractical.

PH military general opposes rev-gov calls: I don't believe in it
Aug 24, 2020 INQUIRER.net
Standing by the Philippines' “very robust” Constitution, a ranking military official on Monday rejected calls for a revolutionary government.
During a confirmation hearing of a panel of the powerful Commission on Appointments (CA), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command chief Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade thumbed down efforts made by a pro-Duterte group to establish a revolutionary government.

Analyst: Push for revolutionary gov't won't progress
Aug 24, 2020 ANC 24/7
A legal analyst agrees, a revolutionary government would be unconstitutional.
Senior Research Fellow of the Ateneo School of Government, Michael Henry Yusingco says, forming a revolutionary government is contrary to the country's values as a democratic nation. But he thinks, the move would be futile.

'Rev gov' finds little support from Duterte allies
Aug 24, 2020 ANC 24/7
President Rodrigo Duterte's supporters who are pushing for a revolutionary government find no love and support even from allies of the chief executive, whom they want to have extra powers.

Palasyo may tugon sa hirit ng isang grupo na 'revolutionary government'
Aug 24, 2020 ABS-CBN News
Nilinaw ng Malacañang na hindi nito sinusuportahan ang panawagan ng ilang tagasuporta ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte para sa isang revolutionary government. Pati militar at mga politiko, dumistansya rin dito. Nagpa-Patrol, Joyce Balancio.

Pahayag ng Makabayan Bloc hinggil sa 'revolutionary government'
Aug 24, 2020 kodao phils
Nagbigay-pahayag si Rep. France Castro ng Makabayan Bloc sa Kongreso kaugnay sa nilulutong 'revolutionary government' ng mga tagasuporta ni Pangulong Duterte nitong nakalipas na linggo.

Proposed rev-gov to give Duterte 'extra powers', including legislation
Aug 24, 2020 ABS-CBN News
A revolutionary government proposed by President Rodrigo Duterte's supporters aims to give him "extra powers" to effect "necessary changes" that Congress was "inutile" to do so, an official of the group said Monday. IMPORTANT read also this article

Panukalang revolutionary government, isang joke: Comelec commissioner
Aug 23, 2020 ABS-CBN News
Isang joke kung ituring ng isang Comelec commissioner ang panukalang pagtatatag ng isang revolutionary government ng mga tagasuporta ni Pangulong Duterte

Pro-Duterte group launches people's initiative calling for a revolutionary gov't in PH
Aug 22, 2020 ANC 24/7
A group supporting President Rodrigo Duterte has launched a people's initiative seeking to declare a revolutionary government in the Philippines.

Revolutionary gov't na pamumunuan ni Duterte isinusulong ng grupo ng mga tagapagsuporta
Aug 22, 2020 ABS-CBN News

'The backbone of my administration is the uniformed personnel of government,' President Rodrigo Duterte says in a public address on July 31
The Philippine government's enhanced community quarantine and all its derivatives were patterned after the decades-long tactics of the military on border controls in its fight against armed groups.

In an online protest dubbed #SONAgkaisa, groups known to have political differences gathered on Friday, July 17, to express the people’s unity and strongest resistance against the Duterte administration’s policies.

It will seem our laws and regulations can be easily weaponized against certain business interests, at the President’s whim

GMA shares jump 10% as ABS-CBN denied of franchise
Ralf Rivas July 13, 2020
GMA Network gains almost P2.1 billion in market capitalization. Meanwhile, the Philippine Stock Exchange suspends trading of ABS-CBN shares.
The price of GMA Holdings, where foreigners can invest in Philippine Depositary Receipts, went up as high as P6.30 from the P5.32 last Friday, July 10, but lost 0.2% at closing.

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IMPORTANT to read:
What you need to know about people's initiative
Jodesz Gavilan July 13, 2020
People's initiative is an exercise of 'power of the people' to enact laws, but it entails a long and expensive process

The bill suffers from obvious legal infirmities, essentially begging for a constitutional challenge

Part 2 - Can government employees post criticism of the anti-terror bill?
Even those working in the private sector cannot be terminated, disciplined, or punished for posting something on Facebook or Twitter or showing up at rallies

Both: Emil Marañon III June 06-07, 2020

Hannah Neumann, member of the European Parliament and vice-chair of the Subcommittee on Human Rights, talks to Rappler's Maria Ressa about the Philippine drug war, the Duterte administration's attacks on the news organization, and what her recent verdict means for democracy and press freedom in the country. IMPORTANT: Look this article

'Here, dear Brutus, is where the fault lies – the quality of politicians we elect to office'

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The verdict on the cyberlibel case filed by businessman Wilfredo Keng against Rappler CEO Maria Ressa is due to come out on Monday. Ressa maintains she has done nothing wrong, adding that the case filed against her is politically motivated and suppresses freedom of speech. Ressa hopes the judge will stick to the spirit of the law.

Look about Damocles AND The sword

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Part 2: DOJ and warrantless arrests
March 29, 2020

Law of Duterte Land: The rule of law in the time of the coronavirus
April 06, 2020
President Duterte's special powers under the Bayanihan Law have begun to be exercised

The Roman Catholic Church
and
The Pope and the Vatican
in the Philippine culture

Exclusive: Lopez matriarch on Ferdinand Marcos and Rodrigo Duterte

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articles:

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How has the law been used to muzzle democratic dissent?
“Lawfare,” described as the perversion of the law and its weaponization as a tool to silence dissent, is a phenomenon known globally. In the Philippines, activists, journalists, and opposition leaders have been on the receiving end of the weaponization of the law.

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Int’l Forum on Lawfare: Weaponizing the Law vs Democratic Dissent
February 21, 2020
Understanding 'lawfare' and unpacking the stories and experiences against the weaponization of the law are among the topics to be discussed at the Manila leg of the international forum.
Legal experts, civil society organizations, and sectoral groups gather in an international forum on February 21, to tackle how the law is being used to muzzle democratic dissent. Look also the article and
HIGHLIGHTS: Forum on weaponizing the law vs democratic dissent
February 23, 2020 - with Videos

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Sereno slams silent Duterte critics as enablers
Lian Buan February 22, 2020 - with Video
'By refusing to tax him on his sworn duty to promote justice, these sectors abet the continued desecration and demolition of institutions of justice and accountability,' says former chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno
In a bold speech that accused President Rodrigo Duterte of killing the Philippine Constitution, former chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno slammed the silent critics as enablers of what she called an anti-reason and anti-science government.

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'To Be in History: Dark Days of Authoritarianism'
Book on Martial Law launched: 'It is happening again'
May 05, 2019
The newly launched book 'To Be in History: Dark Days of Authoritarianism' aims to remind Filipinos about the struggle for freedom during the Marcos regime.
Seeing similarities between the present and the Philippines' dark days under military rule, Martial Law survivors launched a book documenting their experiences to remind Filipinos about their past.

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A petty dictator
Vergel O. Santos December 21, 2019
The significance of Cory’s book cannot be overemphasized. Her stature alone lends it the poundage of truth needed to crush the creeping conspiracy to not only distort, but flat-out falsify the history of the period to rehabilitate its villains.

Duterte: It is my job to kill
Sofia Tomacruz March 10, 2020
'It is my job to scare people, to intimidate people, and to kill people,' says President Rodrigo Duterte in a speech before local officials

Duterte: Don't be president if you can't kill
Sofia Tomacruz March 03, 2020 - with Video
President Rodrigo Duterte also says he does not see anyone 'fit' to serve as president after him

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In the macho world of the House of Representatives, female legislators are unafraid to speak up.
As the world observes Women's Month, Rappler will sit down with 3 influential congresswomen to discuss the crucial role that women play in governance and how it's like to be a female leader under Duterte.
The panel are:
- Sharon Garin, AAMBIS-OWA representative and House committee on economic affairs chairperson
- Bernadette Herrera, Bagong Henerasyon representative and House deputy majority leader
- Sarah Elago, Kabataan representative

Ibon Foundation says the red-tagging by the Duterte government is the 'first step in a much larger and more sinister agenda'

UPLB alliance calls on school officials to protect students from red-tagging
Alvin James Magno May 25, 2020
A video of a student demonstration in the UPLB campus is included in a military propaganda about progressive organizations being 'recruiters' of communists

Task force head Major General Antonio Parlade Jr says their job is to counter 'communist propaganda' supposedly exploiting government lapses in dealing with the pandemic

'By threatening to shut down the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Rappler, and ABS-CBN, Duterte is trying to discourage any discussions that do not fall in line with his views'

HIGHLIGHTS: Forum on weaponizing the law vs democratic dissent
February 23, 2020 - with Videos
Legal experts, civil society organizations, and sectoral groups gather in an international forum to talk about how 'lawfare'

Media and lawfare: Journalists 'woke up to a storm' under Duterte administration
Jene-Anne Pangue February 22, 2020
'2020 should be the time for action, and should be a time for reflection that leads to very concrete steps,' says Rappler managing editor Glenda Gloria

Senate hearing on PH-U.S. Visiting Forces Agreement - Termination - Etc.
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Look the Videos: Philippines: US territory or China’s province?
GMA Public Affairs Feb 27, 2020 - Feb 28, 2020 INQUIRER.net
AND the articles: Is China our new America?

Look also ALL the below articles and Videos:

Senate hearing on PH-U.S. Visiting Forces Agreement
February 06, 2020 - with Video
After President Rodrigo threatened to scrap the Philippines and United States’ Visiting Forces Agreement, senators on Thursday, February 6, hold a hearing on the decades-old defense pact.
The review takes place as lawmakers ask Duterte to hold off on withdrawing from the VFA as it deliberates on the agreement’s impact, benefits, and costs.

The Video: Senators discuss Visiting Forces Agreement termination
Feb 19, 2020 ABS-CBN News

Duterte halted VFA termination due to South China Sea tensions
Sofia Tomacruz June 22, 2020
Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr says for President Rodrigo Duterte, 'having a rise in military tensions in the South China Sea was not helping anybody'

U.S. thanks PH for delaying VFA termination, promises vaccine
Rambo Talabong June 14, 2020
The United States is home to one of the world's current frontrunners in developing a vaccine against the novel coronavirus

Lorenzana welcomes suspension of VFA repeal
JC Gotinga June 03, 2020
'In times of crises and global uncertainty, it is our belief that nations are only made stronger if we work together and focus our efforts on tackling the various challenges that confront us all,' says Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana

Philippines suspends VFA termination for now
Sofia Tomacruz June 02, 2020
The United States welcomes the suspension, which will last for an initial period of 6 months

Ex-VFA chief Edilberto Adan on cutting the military pact with the U.S.
March 18, 2020 - with Video
Former Visiting Forces Agreement Commission executive director Edilberto Adan talks about the importance of the military deal and the impact of its repeal.

The Video: Kapangyarihan ng presidente, hanggang saan ang limitasyon?
GMA Public Affairs March 10, 2020
Hanggang saan nga ba ang kapangyarihan ng Pangulo? ‘Yan ang tanong ng ilang senador na dumulog sa Supreme Court para maghain ng petition hinggil sa VFA. Ang buong detalye, panoorin sa video!

After Senate files VFA petition, Duterte insists: 'I refuse to be compelled'
Sofia Tomacruz March 10, 2020
In asserting he wants the deal scrapped, President Rodrigo Duterte rules out any effort to 'discuss this with anybody'

At last, Senate asks Supreme Court to define limits of Duterte's power
Lian Buan March 09, 2020 - with Video
'I'm sure my colleagues will agree na dapat talaga there cannot be absolutism in our government,' says Senator Richard Gordon.
By filing a petition challenging the President's unilateral termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), the Senate, for the first time in the 3 years of this administration, has asked the Supreme Court to define the limits of President Rodrigo Duterte's presidential power.

The Video: Senators talk to reporters after asking SC to clarify role in treaty termination
ABS-CBN News March 09, 2020

Senators ask Supreme Court: Order Duterte to seek our concurrence on VFA scrapping
Lian Buan March 09, 2020
This marks the first time that senators of the majority bloc are challenging a policy of the Duterte administration before the Supreme Court

U.S. admiral on VFA repeal: A little disappointing but relationship not lost
JC Gotinga March 07, 2020
US Pacific Fleet Commander John Aquilino is leading a port call of the aircraft carrier strike group Theodore Roosevelt in Vietnam, which uncharacteristically skipped the Philippines in its Indo-Pacific voyage

Senate adopts resolution questioning Duterte power to solely end treaties
Aika Rey March 02, 2020
The Senate leadership intends to ask the Supreme Court this week to rule on whether President Rodrigo Duterte can end treaties such as the PH-US Visiting Forces Agreement without Senate concurrence

Choose U.S. or China? Carpio offers 3rd way
Carmela Fonbuena February 28, 2020
Terminating the Visiting Forces Agreement will make the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement useless, says retired justice Antonio Carpio

Hope for VFA? 'Door is not totally shut,' says PH envoy to US
Carmela Fonbuena February 28, 2020
'We cannot ignore a country like the US,' says Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez

Can PH defend itself without U.S. help? We can, we will, we should – AFP
JC Gotinga February 27, 2020
The die is cast, says the military

The Video: Duterte on VFA abrogation: PH can handle its own problems
Feb 27, 2020 Manila Bulletin Online
President Duterte is confident that the country will survive as a nation and will be able to solve its own problems without relying on anyone, particularly the United States.

Duterte insists VFA repeal not a ‘knee-jerk reaction’
JC Gotinga February 26, 2020
‘I am the most deliberate. That’s why I’m awake until 6 o’clock, just thinking of what I have to do,’ says the President

'Fortunately,' there won’t be pushback from military over VFA – Trillanes
JC Gotinga February 19, 2020
The former Navy sailor who led two mutinies says the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a professional institution, and will weather the President’s order to repeal the pact with its biggest military ally

The Video: Bato defends loyalty to Duterte: 'He represents the Filipino people'
Feb 19, 2020 ABS-CBN News
There is nothing wrong with being loyal to President Rodrigo Duterte who is duly-elected to lead the country, said Sen. Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, a day after drawing flak for flaunting his biases.

DJ Chacha slams Dela Rosa: Just resign and be Duterte's bodyguard
February 19, 2020
'When you're a public servant and your loyalty is towards a person and not towards the country, ang tawag diyan, tuta,' she says
She was reacting to Dela Rosa’s statement on President Rodrigo Duterte’s threat to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and against media giant ABS-CBN’s legislative franchise renewal. Balba is a DJ of MOR, which is under ABS-CBN.

No more VFA? PH, U.S. ‘will work out something else’ – Romualdez
JC Gotinga February 18, 2020
Nothing’s certain, but based on history, the two countries will figure out a way to move bilateral relations forward, says the Philippine ambassador to the US

Senators to question VFA termination at Supreme Court
Aika Rey February 16, 2020
No less than Senate President Vicente Sotto III is preparing the petition raising the need for Senate concurrence in ending treaties

Trump 'fine' with VFA termination? 'He deserves to be reelected,' says Duterte
Aika Rey February 16, 2020
Malacañang says President Duterte 'is glad that the American President understands and respects his decision to end the Visiting Forces Agreement'

'Stop whining,' Locsin says after PH sends notice of VFA termination
Sofia Tomacruz February 13, 2020
'Time to grow up,' says Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr

Panelo contradicts Panelo: No Trump, Duterte phone call after all
Sofia Tomacruz February 13, 2020 - with Video
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo admits to reporters there was no scheduled call to begin with.

Trump 'fine' with end of Visiting Forces Agreement
Agence France-Presse February 13, 2020
'If they would like to do that, that's fine, we'll save a lot of money,' Trump tells reporters at the White House, touting his 'very good relationship' with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte

No more military exercises with US when VFA lapses – Lorenzana
JC Gotinga February 13, 2020
Although planned joint exercises may still continue in the next 6 months, there won’t be any when the termination of the military pact takes effect after that period, says the defense chief

Robredo to Duterte: Why so quick to act on VFA but slow on novel coronavirus?
JC Gotinga February 12, 2020
Vice President Leni Robredo questions the President's motive for scrapping the VFA, especially since members of his own Cabinet warned that it would largely be against the Philippines' own interests

Tolentino 'advises' AFP to ask for U.S. equipment when VFA ends
Aika Rey February 12, 2020
'Baka naman makahingi tayo ng p'wede nating gamitin,' says Senator Francis Tolentino as 'advice' to new AFP chief Felimon Santos Jr

VFA termination a 'national tragedy,' says Del Rosario
Sofia Tomacruz February 12, 2020
'It is not what we do; it is not what is right,' says former foreign secretary Albert Del Rosario, urging the Duterte government to reconsider its decision

'Not in session hall?' 6 senators allied with Duterte withdraw vote in VFA review reso
Aika Rey February 12, 2020
Senator Sotto asks Senator Marcos: 'Then why did you not object? Senator Dela Rosa abstained. If you were in the session hall, then you should have abstained.'

Guevarra: PH will survive without VFA with Americans
Lian Buan February 12, 2020
Whether the President's advisers agree with him on the termination of the military deal is now 'water under the bridge,' says the justice secretary

U.S. defense chief: Terminating VFA 'a move in the wrong direction'
JC Gotinga February 12, 2020
Losing the Visiting Forces Agreement would be a setback in countering China’s aggression in the Asia Pacific region, says US Defense Secretary Mark Esper

TIMELINE: Duterte's threats to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement
Sofia Tomacruz February 11, 2020
The Philippines' notice it is terminating the military pact triggers a 180-day countdown until the agreement expires. How did we get here?

Senate divided as Philippines sends VFA notice of termination to U.S.
Aika Rey February 11, 2020
Pro-administration senators withdraw their votes in an already approved Senate resolution that urges the President to review the Visiting Forces Agreement before terminating it

Military members disagree with VFA termination – senior officers
JC Gotinga February 11, 2020
Scrapping the key military pact with the US is disadvantageous to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, say two senior military officers who spoke on condition of anonymity

PH notice of VFA termination to have 'significant implications' on relations, says U.S.
Sofia Tomacruz February 11, 2020
The United States says it will 'carefully consider' its next moves as it 'remains committed' to its friendship with the Philippines

Philippines sends VFA notice of termination to U.S.
Sofia Tomacruz February 11, 2020 - with Video
'The Executive Secretary sent the message to Secretary Teddyboy Locsin and the latter signed the notice of termination as sent to the US government today,' says Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo

What will happen to PH military if the VFA is terminated?
JC Gotinga February 11, 2020
Can joint military exercises with American troops continue without the Visiting Forces Agreement? At the very least, mounting them would become a lot more difficult.

In whose interest? Netizens question gov't scrapping of VFA
Gaby Baizas February 11, 2020
‘Behold this President, his personal issues over [the] nation’s welfare,’ netizen says

PH-U.S. military operations could ‘disappear’ if VFA scrapped – U.S. official
JC Gotinga February 11, 2020
Some 300 joint activities between Philippine and U.S. forces require the VFA as a basis for operations, says U.S. Assistant Secretary of State R. Clarke Cooper

Senate urges Duterte to reconsider plan to scrap VFA
JC Gotinga February 10, 2020
Senators say they should first review the ramifications of withdrawing from the agreement that allows for the presence of US military troops in the Philippines

With VFA uncertain, Duterte lashes out at U.S. once again
Sofia Tomacruz February 10, 2020
'Si Trump pati 'yung others are trying to save the Visiting Forces Agreement. Sabi ko, ayaw ko,' says President Rodrigo Duterte

No order from Duterte yet to terminate VFA
JC Gotinga February 08, 2020
'This is fake news,' says the defense secretary about Salvador Panelo's claim that the President has taken steps to instruct Foreign Secretary Locsin to send the notice of termination to the US
Contrary to an earlier statement from the presidential spokesperson, President Rodrigo Duterte has not yet ordered Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr to send the US notice to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Saturday afternoon, February 8.

Despite risks, Duterte orders Locsin to terminate VFA
Sofia Tomacruz February 07, 2020
President Rodrigo Duterte ignores the calls of top security and foreign officials to first review the defense agreement

FULL TEXT: Locsin on impact assessment of VFA termination
February 06, 2020 - with video
What is at stake and is the Philippines ready to terminate the VFA?

With threats to scrap VFA, Duterte gambles Phillippines' security
Sofia Tomacruz February 6, 2020
President Rodrigo Duterte's latest outburst against the US isolates the country from its oldest ally and sows uncertainty against the threat of any Chinese aggression

Locsin: Risky for PH to terminate visiting forces agreement with U.S.
Sofia Tomacruz February 06, 2020
Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr says the 'continuance of the agreement is deemed to be more beneficial' to the country

No termination yet: Locsin instead wants 'vigorous review' of VFA
Rambo Talabong February 06, 2020
Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr admits he and defense chief Delfin Lorenzana were not consulted before President Duterte announced his order to terminate the PH-US Visiting Forces Agreement

Lacson questions ending VFA to get Dela Rosa's visa back
Aika Rey January 24, 2020
Senator Panfilo Lacson says the Supreme Court needs to 'act soonest' on whether a two-third vote by the Senate is needed to terminate international treaties.

Newsbreak, Rappler's investigative and research section, tracks stories that depict lawlessness in the Philippines, aided by policies and orders that veer toward authoritarianism

Newsbreak Chats 2019: The year in stupidity
December 18 - with Video
Rappler senior editors discuss the events that shaped the Philippines in 2019, what issues hounded Duterte, and what 2020 will bring.
It has been a crazy 2019, filled with controversies from all branches of the Philippine government.
Will democracy continue to decline in 2020?

Sometime ago, a journalist friend and I were looking into post-Duterte scenarios, particularly about the legacy he would leave – first, in our armed institutions, and second in society at large – given his “kill, kill, kill” mentality.

Part 1: Massive errors in record-keeping and ill-prepared facilities keep thousands in jail for months, and kill at least 4 convict returnees. They regret heeding the President's call.

In Malacañang on September 4, President Rodrigo Duterte issued a live television warning to heinous crime convicts who were previously released on good conduct time allowance (GCTA): surrender or be hunted.

"If you do not, then beginning at this hour, you are a fugitive from justice," Duterte said, without citing a law, without a court order, and without so much a written memorandum, even though GCTA, once granted, can never be revoked.

The President offered a P1-million bounty for each of them. Dead or alive.

Unqualified GCTA returnees lose jobs, are detained for months
Text and photos by MICHELLE ABAD December 15, 2019
Part 2: Even if many are not heinous crime convicts, former inmates turn themselves in to the Correctional Institution for Women out of fear of the President. Administrative lapses make them worry they won’t be home for Christmas.

Bantag tries to slay Bilibid's old monsters, Duterte-style
Lian Buan, Rambo Talabong and Jodesz Gavilan December 16, 2019
Part 3: Gerald Bantag literally bulldozed his way to get rid of shanties inside Bilibid on his first week. Will it work in fixing congestion and criminality? We take an inside look.

Huge numbers of deaths have gone uncounted in Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war. What does that mean for due process, and for the countries that emulate him? Read - download the Report as pdf

Duterte to fire Robredo if she helps probes vs drug war
Rambo Talabong November 17, 2019
President Rodrigo Duterte prohibits Vice President and now Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs co-chair Leni Robredo from aiding foreign investigations against his so-called war on drugs.

President Rodrigo Duterte's version of historical time is one of unending trauma, where experience outstrips expression.
What's the difference between President Rodrigo Duterte and his predecessors?

As we sang our graduation song, we became misty-eyed at the thought of our inevitable separation... of the beginning of a new phase in our lives under the New Society, the euphemism given to Martial Law.
When Martial Law was declared in 1972 and changed the dynamics of our relationships; paranoia became the order of the day. And our lives were never the same again.

Martial law 'peaceful'? Netizens debate severity of Marcos regime
Gaby Baizas September 21, 2019
Was the Philippines under Martial Law as peaceful as Marcos apologists make it out to be?

Martial law: The pill I had to take
Rio S. Aburido September 21, 2019
In my grandfather’s house, the name Marcos and the idea of martial law was like a pill that could cure a malignant disease. But the pill is so bitter, and even unfit for human consumption.

Martial Law anniversary reminder for Filipinos to fight despotic rule
September 21, 2019
'Higit sa pag-alala, ang araw na ito ay isang panawagan… na gampanan ang ating iisang tungkulin na siguruhing walang lugar ang kahit sinong diktador sa isang bayang malaya,' says Vice President Leni Robredo on the 47th anniversary of Martial Law

Disinformation, coordinated amplification, use of an extensive network of anonymously-managed pages and groups are part of the Marcos comeback playbook

Part 2: NETWORKED PROPAGANDA
How the Marcoses are rewriting history
Messages posted on groups and pages monitored by Rappler's Sharktank typically also glorified the virtues of authoritarian rule

The massive propaganda and targeted disinformation produced and amplified by Marcos and Duterte fan pages, YouTube channels, and social media influencers.

This networked propaganda, which sought to alter public perception on the Marcoses, was mapped using Rappler’s Sharktank database. This has tracked over 360 pages and over 280 groups supporting the Marcoses.

IMPORTANT Read also ALL links in the article

To be sure, too many incredible things have happened in the Supreme Court, precisely in cases where Duterte had an interest

AGAIN "AboutPhilippines" may ask:
Is Duterte "a Marcos lapdog"

On Tuesday, September 24, Rappler editor-at-large Marites Vitug sits down with human rights lawyer Marlon Manuel to discuss the case and what the harassment against the opposition means to the rule of law

A June 2019 Social Weather Stations Survey shows 51% of Filipinos agree it's dangerous to print or broadcast anything critical of the current administration even if it is the truth.
A majority of Filipinos think it is risky to publicize criticism of the Duterte administration even if it is truthful, Social Weather Stations (SWS) President Mahar Mangahas said on August 3, Saturday.

PH lawyers revive decade-old group to protest Duterte policies
Lian Buan September 23, 2019
'Not since the dark years of Martial Law have our civil liberties and fundamental rights been threatened and blatantly violated with such brazen impunity,' says the group Concerned Lawyers for Civil Liberties

Former congressman Walden Bello interviews detained Senator Leila de Lima. In the first part of their interview, De Lima weighs in on Philippines-China relations, Dutertenomics, and Metro Manila traffic.

Part 2 of 2
In the second part of Walden Bello's interview with Senator Leila de Lima, the detained lawmaker talks about the Duterte Cabinet, the military, the GCTA mess, and moves to crush the opposition

IMPORTANT: Look also MORE about Mocha Uson

Duterte gives Mocha Uson a new government post
Pia Ranada September 30, 2019 - With Video

The pro-Duterte blogger is appointed a deputy executive director at the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
Uson has been appointed Deputy Executive Director V of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), according to a new list of presidential appointees sent by Malacañang on Monday, September 30.

Robredo fact-checks Uson: Why let a fake news peddler get taxpayers' money?
Mara Cepeda January 17, 2020 - with Video
Known online propagandist and OWWA official Mocha Uson falsely claims the food packs donated by the Vice President's office to the Taal victims contained only 5 pieces of pan de sal and a bottle of water

‘This gov’t is good at recycling garbage’: Netizens slam Mocha Uson's OWWA appointment
Bonz Magsambol September 30, 2019
What do you think of the Duterte administration's move to bring Mocha Uson back to government?
Controversial pro-Duterte blogger Mocha Uson is back in a government post. Her return, however, is being criticized widely by netizens, with one common sentiment being, “This government is good at recycling garbage."

Netizens on Tuesday, July 21, pointed out that the Twitter account of Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Deputy Administrator Mocha Uson (@MochaUson) was taken over by another blogger, Banat By (@BanatByOfficial).
Twitter user @AltABSCBN, who is “subscribed” to Uson’s tweets, shared that s/he was surprised when s/he suddenly received a notification from Banat By.

What I have learned from history is that often, Filipinos have been asked to accept the very tragedies which have defined us.

President Rodrigo Duterte had always been under media scrutiny - not only here in the Philippines but also abroad - even before he rose to power as the country’s chief executive in the 2016 national elections.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo says enough leeway should be given to a 'Bisaya President' who 'misspeaks the Filipino language'

“General Loot, putangina mo nanalo pa ng barangay – mayor. Inambush kita, animal ka, buhay pa rin (General Loot, you son of a bitch, you even won as barangay – mayor. I ambushed you, you animal, but you're still alive)," he said.

Three years of the Duterte presidency have come and gone and one thing is certain: Rodrigo Duterte is the country's most foul-mouthed chief executive so far. His expletive-peppered tirades are an almost daily reality. Once on a roll, he won't press the breaks for anyone, not even God. Insults are part of Duterte's performative style of governance, and even his diplomacy.

‘His word is law’: A list of Duterte’s verbal-only orders
Pia Ranada July 30, 2019
Aside from his order to stop PCSO games, President Rodrigo Duterte has made at least 6 other policy pronouncements that were not followed up by written documents defining their parameters and legal bases

5 challenges to Duterte's ‘fishing deal’ with China
Sofia Tomacruz July 30, 2019
Why President Duterte’s ‘verbal agreement’ allowing China to fish in Philippine waters is unlawful and dangerous

Applause for death, drugs, sex jokes – that is the State of the Nation
Ana P. Santos July 30, 2019
The ramifications of these will outlast the next 3 years. Our institutions are compromised and, along with it, our values as a people.

Titled “Duterte-syokoy,” the effigy shows a likeness of the Philippine mythological creature. It depicts Duterte at the West Philippine Sea clutching a China flag, a gun, and a bag of cash.

'This is not the last': Thousands unite for People's SONA 2019
Samantha Bagayas July 22, 2019
Around 5,350 protesters march along Commonwealth Avenue to share their own version of the state of the nation

IN PHOTOS: Art means uprising at the SONA 2019 protests
July 22, 2019
Protesters got creative as they created artwork to express their opposition to the Duterte administration

'How Democracies Die' by Levitsky and Ziblatt identifies signs of a budding authoritarian and steps they take to subvert democracies. How does Rodrigo Duterte measure up to their criteria?

The first 3 years of President Rodrigo Duterte's term will pass on June 30. Political science associate professor Aries Arugay weighs in on the Chief Executive's popularity, gains and losses, and challenges in the next half of his term.

Duterte presidency in 5 minutes
June 26, 2019 - with Video
Here is a look at the defining moments of the first half of President Rodrigo Duterte's administration in under 5 minutes

Duterte presidency 'domineering' challenge to PH democracy
Pia Ranada June 26, 2019
While quelling dissent could be 'efficient' for a president who wants to get things done, political science expert Aries Arugay says democracy is also about checks and balance

We have not seen anything like this since the fall of the Marcos dictatorship in 1986: a strongman inserting himself in the local elections by carpet-bombing his enemies

'Ang honesty, napakalaking factor sa integrity ng isang tao. Kung wala kang ganoon, dapat hindi mo iniisip maglingkod kasi paano ka makakapaglingkod kung may problema ka sa sarili mo?' says Vice President Leni Robredo

Public officials legally required to be honest, says ex-ombudsman Morales
Lian Buan March 21, 2019
‘Honesty is, therefore, a matter of oath derived from legal sources, not a matter of option driven by market forces,’ says former ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales

AboutPhilippines says very IMPORTANT to read incl. ALL the links in the articles

When Power insists, "you're either with us or against us," the space for a diversity of voices and ideas shrinks.
'The government is for all and not just those who agree with the policies of the administration'
Filipinos block online. Also the government bans - blocks in all ways for all critics!

When hate and anger are weaponized, it creates a spiral of silence.

When critical questions are simplistically equated with an anti-government agenda, it requires courage to hold decision-makers accountable.

The Videos in the album 'FIGHT for Press & Speech Freedom and Journalism - Etc.':

The recent Pulse Asia survey listed down the top concerns of Filipinos which include poverty reduction, job creation, and fighting criminality.

Martial Law was here in one blow decades ago, and is here now – in increments we continue refusing to see.

We’re being robbed twice over, and we’re not doing anything about it except make noise.

Marites Vitug sits down with Emmanuel de Dios to discuss economic issues and help make sense of the situation that Filipinos now find themselves in

IMPORTANT: The links in the article HERE

Duterte may issue EO to address inflation
Pia Ranada September 12, 2018
President Rodrigo Duterte meets with his economic managers before the 29th Cabinet meeting to discuss how to contain inflation

Cebu City Mayor Tomas "Tommy" Osmeña speaks to Rappler on being a mayor under President Rodrigo Duterte: getting stripped of police powers, facing threats, but at the same time still being expected to locally promote key campaigns like the war on drugs and federalism.

Osmeña, police clash anew: Why a checkpoint outside Cebu mayor’s house?
Ryan Macasero April 28, 2019
City Mayor Osmeña, who is being challenged by President Duterte's bet, says his house is not even on a main thoroughfare, and the cops manning the checkpoint leave when he leaves.

Next on kill list?

August 6, 2018 Rappler editor-at-large Marites Vitug talked to former defense secretary Orlando Mercado about national security and the threats the Philippines is facing

CHINA RELATIONSHIP UNDER DUTERTE

Videos

Duterte threatens to jail critics who says he may be impeached

Supposed fishing deal between PH, China violates Constitution

Recto Bank incident proof that Duterte is a lapdog of China

CHINA HANDS OFF PH WATERS

Why the divisions between us when one fight clearly overtops all others? Is there any doubt our nation has begun its descent into authoritarianism?

President Rodrigo Duterte defends his penchant for appointing ex-military men into civilian posts, saying they rarely 'debate' with him.

IMPORTANT:

The generals' coup in 2018
Duterte breaks up with Reds
Carmela Fonbuena DECEMBER 26, 2018
The military elbows the communists out of government, and turns the President who once called himself leftist into becoming the rebels' worst enemy

LIST: Duterte's top military, police appointees
Pia Ranada December 15, 2018
Here are the former military and police generals appointed by President Duterte to key posts in government

In 2018, Duterte turns to military for (almost) everything
Pia Ranada December 12, 2018
A third of the Cabinet are now ex-military or police men. The President relies on former generals to carry out radical policies, from Boracay closure to customs bureau overhaul.

Lawmakers hit military 'takeover' of BOC: 'Martial law na ba?'
Mara Cepeda October 29, 2018
'It's an extreme response, putting a purely civilian bureaucracy under military control. It's as if President Duterte has imposed nationwide martial law,' says Akbayan Representative Tom Villarin

Soldiers in Customs? But Constitution bars civilian assignments for military
Lian Buan October 29, 2018
Section 5(4), Article XVI specifically says no member of the armed forces shall, at any time, be appointed or designated in any capacity to a civilian position

and the Video: Government’s ‘militarization’ a ‘horror story’: Liza Maza
Nov 1, 2018
The reorganization is being carried out as President Duterte acknowledged that the government is being militarized

The sound of the military's silence
Chito de la Vega September 02, 2018

Silence is the desire of a dictatorial state that pretends to be democratic. It hides behind the tyranny of opinion, the popularity of a charismatic figure, and the spirit of unyielding legalism.

Filipinos remember Martial Law: 'Dictatorship is back'
Paterno Esmaquel II September 21, 2018 - with Videos
Thousands of protesters gather to denounce a 'creeping dictatorship' as the Philippines marks the 46th anniversary of Martial Law

Robredo: 'It’s time to take a stand because democracy is at risk again'
Mara Cepeda September 21, 2018
'Tinatawag tayo ng panahon upang umaksyon at ang pagkakataong ganito ay minsan lamang babalik sa atin,' says Vice President Leni Robredo

How Duterte handles crisis, controversy during his presidency
PIA RANADA July 28, 2018
How does President Rodrigo Duterte define a crisis? How does he handle one?
Political science experts analyze how Duterte responds to major controversies.

Duterte admits being a dictator

Does Duterte fulfill the dictator criteria?

Pres. Rodrigo R. Duterte, "The NEW Hitler"?

"AboutPhilippines" recommend to read these above articles, because so it is in our beloved country now!

The present situation in the Philippines under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte is no different from the martial law years of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, according to Fr. Angel Cortez, co-executive secretary of the Association of the Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines.

Roughly half of Duterte's original Cabinet remains at the midway point of his presidency, while the number of retired military or police in the Cabinet has tripled. Read - download the article as pdf

By 2020 elections, Comelec will be packed with Duterte appointees
August 20, 2019
The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism points out the exit of seasoned poll commissioners means the appointment of newer ones who have limited experience running national automated elections

Zero tolerance for corruption? Rappler finds that President Duterte has reappointed, promoted, or retained in a different capacity 16 government officials accused of corruption or misuse of public funds.

How does the DILG plan to carry out the Anti-Subversion Act of 1957 should it be revived?
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año dropped a bombshell last week that instantly generated flak from activists: that he wants the anti-subversion law revived. Look also all the links in the article

CREATING A MARCOS? Reviving the anti-subversion law under Duterte
Rambo Talabong and Jodesz Gavilan August 21, 2019
The anti-subversion law was the dictator Ferdinand Marcos' tool of choice in strangling the opposition and crushing legitimate dissent. Groups fear its planned revival under President Rodrigo Duterte will lead to the same – or even worse.

Duterte is no Marcos, says DILG in defending anti-subversion law
Rambo Talabong August 19, 2019 - with Video
'This is not the authoritarian martial law which is of the Marcos period where when someone is arrested and not heard of, and then suddenly he's dead,' says DILG Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya

Newsbreak, Rappler’s research and investigative arm, has pursued stories to track the Philippines' slow but steady descent to authoritarianism, in a bid to stem it and call attention to this worrisome trend

Where do we fall in world rankings?
Alex Evangelista December 20, 2018
Attacks against democratic values and unforeseen events situate the Philippines
in much lower rankings than the previous year in several areas

Political analyst Doy Romero about fears of a less independent Senate after the May 13 elections.
With President Rodrigo Duterte’s senatorial bets dominating preelection surveys, many experts fear a less independent Senate after the May 13 elections.
Will this mean the death of democracy?
To help us understand this issue, Rappler talks to political analyst Doy Romero.
Watch this interview.