President Rodrigo Duterte said the work of the country’s long-established democracy will “certainly continue” despite the nearing end of his six-year term in 2022.
In his intervention at the Summit for Democracy organized by the United States, Duterte said freedom of expression and of the press in the country are “fully enjoyed,” while “regular transfer of power is guaranteed through free and honest elections.”
“My administration will ensure an honest, peaceful, credible, and free elections in May. It will be my highest honor to turn over the reins of power to my successor, knowing that in the exercise of my mandate, I did my best to serve the Filipino nation,” he said.
The Chief Executive said the current government has worked on creating jobs, peace and security, and on the institutionalization of social safety nets.
He said his administration will continue to work on reforms to include everyone in its recovery from the pandemic, noting that the prevailing COVID-19 threat has “reversed” economic gains.
However, he noted that the country’s governance is being challenged by corruption, poverty, and peace and order.
“When I was elected President, I pledged meaningful change. I aspire for a government that really works for the Filipino people, especially the poor and the marginalized,” he said.
“Hard but necessary reforms needed to be made, deep wounds of divisions needed to be healed, and stark inequalities needed to be redressed. All difficult undertakings, but we did what we could and should,” he added.
Moreover, he said he respects the “separation of powers vital for democracy” after his move to federalism did not get the backing of the Congress.
Malacaῆang said on Friday (Dec. 10) that Duterte’s invitation and participation on the summit is in recognition of the existing democracy in the country. AG -rir
