Toxic Democracy? The Philippines in 2018

摘要: Toxic is the Oxford English Dictionary's word of year for 2018. It a that captures mood our time, evidenced by 45 per cent spike in frequency people who looked up term. Used tandem with masculinity , toxic has served as descriptor to emphasize physical harm, emotional damage and lethal effects patriarchal power. The same can summarize 2018 Philippines. Beyond President Rodrigo Duterte's overt displays discernible pattern his administration's aggressive attacks against integrity democratic institutions. From attempting jail opposition figures forging controversial deals China place Philippines’ sovereignty at risk, regime demonstrated extent which it willing breach boundaries state power while evading accountability. This chapter analyses Philippines around three themes politics, policies deals. Each these focuses on specific issues will draw attention broader patterns rule, which, this argues, assumed quality life. politics press freedom ouster Supreme Court chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. examines how iron-fisted approach governance shaped conduct Boracay island shutdown Marawi rehabilitation. Finally, Chinese investment new tax laws. By identifying issues, does not intend portray bleak future Philippine democracy. final part demonstrates public responded political trajectory, prompts reflection where nation may be headed. Democracy's Autoimmune Disease There always been danger populist Duterte would have effect Populism, theorist Simon Tormey puts it, pharmakon “a powerful substance intended make someone better, but might end killing him or her”. no way know outcome advance, he toxicity populism “depends dosage receptivity body”.