The Philippines President Rodrigo Roa Duterte have today been inconsistent. He has released a “Message” supporting the press and being a genuine part of the World Press Freedom Day of 2021. He has come out with a positive statement, which seems like what you should say. However, on the same day he retaliates against the ABS-CBN. Which he has had an issue with for years. Just like his government have gone after Rappler too. Not like he values them or their freedom of the press.
These two companies have gotten into trouble for their reporting. Their actions and their issues with Rodrigo. Yes, ABS-CBN had really vicious adverts during the Presidential Campaign before Duterte was elected. Still, the state have retaliated against the media network and media house of ABS-CBN.
He is the Head of State but can never overcome the shortcomings of others in the past. The President never have the ability to let bygones be bygones. That is a sign of weakness and not strength. If he wants to seem like a big-man and a powerful individual. This is not it. He is like a whiny teen who is still mad at the crush who never returned the feelings or the appreciation of the other one. Duterte is furious that someone did him dirty and cannot overcome it. That is just tragic. Knowing the power of his office and all his allies across the Republic.
If he believes in freedom of the press. Prove it. Not just challenge the franchise of ABS-CBN again. Not go after the Rappler like you have done. If you believes in these things. Not only praise and behind the “yes-man” but let “nay-sayers” get a voice. Still, that is apparently a lot to ask for. Since you are just brutal and doesn’t have a heart to act otherwise.
As the President he can be responsible and wise, but this is just foolish. This man could be so much better and his advisors could have given him a heads-up. Seems like they fear challenging him or question his actions. The President is praising the press, but at the same day saying one of the biggest media network shouldn’t get licence to operate. That shows how ruthless he is and not caring about these values. These values cannot matter to him… when he wants to suffocate and silence the ABS-CBN.
Duterte could show some humility and be the better man, but that is apparently to much to ask. The ABS-CBN know what they triggered and did, but the President should know the dirty game of politics. As he has been involved in that for so many years in Davao and later in Manilla. He should know this perfectly well. Instead of going after them, but he should undress them and show them where they were wrong. To take away their ability to report, have licences and go after their heads. His just showing why people is questing his paths in the first place.
Rodrigo needs to chill, eat some adobo and drink a red horse beer. That would be healthy for him. I doubt he would do so, but in this instance. He should be the bigger man, but when it comes to him. That’s too much to ask apparently. Peace.
MinBane 