That said on Tuesday a high-ranking party representative from Duterte’s ruling party PDP. In the Philippines it is not possible to run again for the president, he has to resign after a term of office and cannot reapply for the highest office at any later point in time.
Running as a vice-candidate stirs up speculation that the controversial president, as the future deputy president, could bypass the spirit of the constitution and keep power firmly in hand. By accepting the vice-presidential candidacy, Duterte is making a great sacrifice and following the call of the people, said Karlo Nograles, Vice-Secretary General of the PDP-Laban and, in his government function, cabinet secretary, a kind of government coordinator.
Allegation: human rights violations
Rodrigo Duterte is anything but undisputed internationally – especially because of his anti-drug policy in the Philippines. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating alleged murders in the state “War on Drugs”. When he was elected in 2016, Duterte announced crackdown on drug criminals and threatened drug smugglers with death. According to police, at least 7,000 people have been killed in anti-drug missions since then. But human rights groups believe that the real number is much higher. According to observers, many suspects were reportedly killed out of court by death squads. Critics speak of serious human rights violations.
“Arrest” refusal to vaccinate
The termination of an important defense pact with the main ally USA finally pulled Duterte back after a back and forth. The Philippines are one of those states that are in conflict with China over islands in the South China Sea. Duterte also caused an uproar with announcements about the Corona fight: He declared that he would have people arrested who did not get vaccinated. In addition, Duterte, who is known for his speeches, announced that he would like to have lists kept in Filipino villages of those who refuse to be vaccinated.
