For the last decade, the Duterte family has been known throughout the Philippines as almost untouchable – respected, feared, and seen by many as above the law. Take Rodrigo Duterte’s brutal war on drugs when he was president of the Philippines. Despite a bloody crackdown, Duterte remained largely unchallenged both domestically and internationally during his presidency. His son, Paolo, has enjoyed similar immunity: several years ago, he was implicated in a multi-billion peso drug-smuggling operation, but got off easy – with rumours that the judicial system was rigged to protect the family.
The Duterte family has remained a powerful political dynasty in the Philippines, even after President Rodrigo Duterte left office two years ago. Their deep populist appeal and strongman style of leadership has allowed the family to cling on to power for approaching 40 years. The family’s influence has continued to grow, with all three of Rodrigo’s children currently involved in Philippine politics.
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