Duterte's 'retirement' from politics draws mixed reactions: From 'Thank you' to 'Good riddance'

BY Argyll Cyrus Geducos
Oct 3, 2021 11:36 AM

Filipinos online expressed mixed reactions to President Duterte's sudden announcement to back out from the 2022 elections and instead retire from politics.

President Rodrigo Duterte (JOEY DALUMPINES/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO)

The reactions came after Duterte shocked the country with this plot twist after saying over the weeks that he will run for vice president to continue his campaigns and because he loves the country.

Netizens retweeting Manila Bulletin's Twitter post about the President's retirement announcement were doubtful about his sudden decision.

A Twitter user thought this was a tried-and-tested formula, while another one compared it to a movie or television villain.

"Galawan talaga, asahan na ung anak ang tatakbo. Wag sana manalo (Their tactics are obvious. Expect the child to run. I hope they don't win)," Twitter user itsdreness said.

"Ganitong-ganito ang galawan ng mga kontrabida sa pelikula at teleserye. Hindi mapagkakatiwalaan. Halatang may nilulutong masamang balak (This is exactly what you expect villains from movies and television series to do. They cannot be trusted. It's obvious that they're cooking something up)," Twitter user @Deactivate2585 said.

Other netizens on the same platform are skeptical about the President's reason but said they are glad that he finally came to realize it.

They were reacting to Duterte's reason for not running for vice president. He said his running was against the will of the people and will violate the Constitution.

"Do I believe the reasons he has given? Hell no. Am I glad that he has made this decision? Hell yes. Good bloody riddance!" Twitter user John Lee said.

"This has been the BEST news," ffsfranco_ said.

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