He may be a former President of the Republic now but Rodrigo Roa Duterte remains to be appreciated by his former constituents for his accomplishments he had during his reign as the highest leader of the land. Add to those who appreciate him are the local elected officials led by the Provincial Government of Pampanga.
Last Tuesday, provincial officials led by Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, provincial board members, congressmen including former President and 2nd District Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, city and municipal mayors recognized Duterte’s support to the province when he was still the President of the Republic. The honoree was even declared as the “Adopted Son of the Province of Pampanga” as a tribute for his support to the province during his six-year term.
As proof, Governor Pineda during his speech, mentioned the new passenger airport terminal, the Northrail Station and the Provincial Hospital which are all in Clark, the Overseas Filipino Workers Hospital, bypass roads, the DHVSU Building, among others. He profusely expressed his gratitude on behalf of the kapampangans for the various programs and projects that were funded and some were already implemented.
The Governor likewise lauded Duterte for the attention he gave to Pampanga during the pandemic where COVID-19 vaccines were distributed to millions of kapampangans. In addition, the former President was extended gratitude for the financial assistance and employment opportunities given to indigent families.
By virtue of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Pampanga Resolution No. 7643, Duterte was declared as the “Adopted Son of the Province of Pampanga” for the latter’s contribution to the province in terms of growth and development. Undoubtedly, the province is further developing and Malacañang’s support then was very instrumental for such growth. The former President meanwhile was likewise very thankful and honored for the recognition he was bestowed with.
Duterte’s right hand man, Senator Bong Go was also given the accolades and recognition by virtue of Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution No. 7643-A for promoting the welfare and interest of the province. As an incumbent Senator, he vowed to continue his programs and projects especially for the marginalized.
Despite having many detractors too, former President Duterte is perhaps the most popular president the country ever had in recent years. His aggressiveness against crimes and his war on drugs made him more popular when he was still there. He showed Filipinos how serious our problem on drugs then before he started his bloody campaign against drug users and pushers.
Duterte had his own brand of comedy when he was still in the Palace. On stage and off-stage, formal or informal occasions, he shared many funny moments with his audiences. If Joseph Estrada, another former President of the Republic had his “Erap” jokes, Duterte had his own way of making people laugh or smile even in events where attendees are serious. Some of Duterte’s jokes are even naughty especially when he delves into topics involving women and womanizing. Both former presidents are known to have special charms to ladies.
Not every highest leader of the land is recognized such as the one afforded to Duterte. Neither, there is nothing wrong in giving praise and recognition to someone who was once a President. Perhaps, kapampangans are merely appreciative of what Duterte has done for the province. Such recognition may also serve as inspiration to those who will be presidents too in the coming years ahead.
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