Rodrigo Duterte on drugs, death and diplomacy | Talk to Al Jazeera

Summary

In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte discusses his controversial war on drugs, which has seen over 3,500 deaths, emphasizing the need to protect future generations. He addresses allegations of human rights abuses, stating his commitment to preserving the nation's youth. Duterte also touches on his country's foreign policy, including strained relations with the US and potential engagement with China, while asserting the Philippines' rights over disputed territories in the South China Sea.

Takeaways

• 🇵🇭 Rodrigo Duterte emphasizes his commitment to the war on drugs, stating it is necessary to save the next generation from drug addiction.
• 🏛 Duterte discusses his background, including his politically inclined family and the impact of his early life experiences on his current views.
• 🔫 He acknowledges the deaths of 3,500 people in the drug war, but argues that it is a necessary measure to protect the country's youth.
• 🚨 Duterte denies encouraging vigilante killings, but admits that he has threatened criminals with death.
• 🏥 He expresses the lack of funds for rehabilitation centers, blaming the previous administration for not allocating resources for this issue.
• ⚖️ Duterte questions the effectiveness of the judicial system in dealing with drug cases, citing low conviction rates.
• 🌎 He discusses the Philippines' foreign policy, including his approach to China and the South China Sea dispute.
• 🏝️ Duterte clarifies that he will not give up any territory in the South China Sea, but is open to negotiations to prevent conflict.
• 🌿 He expresses openness to the idea of medicinal marijuana if it is certified by the appropriate authorities.
• 🤝 Duterte indicates a shift in foreign policy, distancing from the United States and seeking warmer relations with China.

Q & A

What is the main controversy surrounding President Rodrigo Duterte's presidency?

The main controversy is Duterte's war on drugs, which has resulted in the killing of thousands of people, sparking international concern and criticism.

How has Duterte's background influenced his approach to governance?

Duterte's upbringing in a politically inclined family, with a father who was a governor and a mother who was a freedom fighter, has profoundly shaped his outlook on politics and governance.

What was Duterte's response to the issue of extrajudicial killings in the context of the war on drugs?

Duterte acknowledged the killings but justified them as necessary to protect the country's future, arguing that the sheer number of drug addicts could destroy the next generation.

How does Duterte view the role of the judicial system in addressing the drug problem?

Duterte expressed frustration with the judicial system, noting the lack of convictions in drug cases and suggesting that the system is not effectively addressing the drug problem.

What is Duterte's stance on human rights in relation to his war on drugs?

Duterte has stated that he does not care about what human rights advocates say and that his priority is to preserve the future of the country's youth, even if it involves violating human rights standards.

Does Duterte believe in rehabilitation as a solution to the drug problem?

While Duterte acknowledges the need for rehabilitation, he also emphasizes the magnitude of the drug problem and the limitations of the budget allocated for such programs.

What is Duterte's position on medicinal marijuana?

Duterte is open to the idea of medicinal marijuana if it is certified by the Food and Drug Administration as beneficial and is used for legitimate medical purposes.

How does Duterte plan to approach his relationship with China, especially concerning the South China Sea dispute?

Duterte intends to engage in dialogue with China, seeking a peaceful resolution and compromise without giving up Philippine claims, while also acknowledging the limitations set by the Constitution.

What was Duterte's explanation for his previous statement about riding a jet ski to plant the Philippine flag in the disputed territory?

Duterte clarified that the jet ski statement was a hyperbole to emphasize his determination not to give up on the disputed territory, not a literal plan of action.

How does Duterte view the relationship between the Philippines and the United States?

Duterte has expressed a desire to distance the Philippines from the United States, its long-standing ally, possibly due to differences in foreign policy and a shift towards a more independent foreign policy stance.