2 political analysts give Duterte passing mark

Two noted political analysts have given President Duterte a passing mark halfway through his six-year term.

Calixto Chikiamco, president of Foundation for Economic Freedom, and Victor Manhit, founder of Stratbase Group, gave Duterte a grade of between “70 [and] 80 percent.”

Governance gains

Chikiamko and Manhit cited the President’s “governance gains” but called for more structural reforms during the remainder of his term.

In a briefing held by Security Bank on Thursday, Chikiamco said Duterte had evolved from just being a city mayor with a narrow circle of appointees to a leader surrounded by competent professionals.

Manhit said he was “cautiously optimistic” on “Dutertismo,” a leadership style marked by political will, a deep connection with the public and the ability to define some of the key visions for the country. —DORIS DUMLAO-ABADILLA