NO SURVEYS showed it but Ferdinand Marcos Sr. definitely hugged the bottom of satisfaction ratings. His regime was broadly opposed by the political opposition, faith-based Christian activists, and by moderate to extreme left organizations like FFF (Federation of Free Farmers), FFW (Federation of Free Workers, KM (Kabataang Makabayan), CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army), etc.
But except for a few brave bishops in Mindanao, the CBCP (Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines) did not oppose Martial Law. This body opted for “critical collaboration” that in practice was more “collaboration” than “critical.”
The suspicion was they collaborated because they feared the specter of communism more than an actual evil regime. It helped buckets that Marcos shrewdly coddled them and showed no signs he wanted them dislodged from their lofty and heretofore untouchable socio-moral perch.
In contrast, President Duterte’s high satisfaction rating still puts him in the crosshairs of CBCP’s sort of guns. The political opposition talks the same language and cites the same facts (EJK’s, human rights violations, etc.) as the CPP-NPA and some bishops are doing the same in assailing Duterte. They seem to detest his ways so bad they are willing to dance to the same tune as their traditional hated enemy, communism.
This brings up the question of motive. Except for a few conscientious objectors, politicians who opposed Marcos did so in the interest of securing a return to the system that had factions of the oligarchy taking turns rigging elections and grabbing power. The bishops who collaborated with Marcos did so for fear not only of communism but also of losing their position of privilege in society. Allowing for a few exceptions, the opposition never really cared for justice and human rights. Except for the CPP-NPA, they just wanted a return to the pre-Martial Law status quo.
The same would seem to be true now. The political opposition is not fighting for people’s welfare. They fight to keep the system intact that gives them a regular turn at buying their way into power. The CPP-NPA want change but at what price?
CBCP in turn is opposing Duterte to protect their vested interest of an esteemed and respectable position in society. Bishops might like Duterte for fighting communism like Marcos did, but unlike Marcos Duterte is kissing no Episcopal rings. He must be opposed for endangering their respectability and moral authority.
With vested interest as the driving motive of political and religious opposition to Duterte and with communism a no bargain who can marginalized Filipinos run to for salvation?
My idea of an answer in another column.