User:TagaSanPedroAko/Original contents of Presidency of Rodrigo Duterte

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2017, martial law, and drug war killings

January

On January 9, 2017, the Armed Forces of the Philippines vowed to crush local terror groups, particularly the Abu Sayyaf and the Maute Group, within 6 months. On the same day, pro-Duterte bloggers who call themselves DDS (Duterte Die-hard Supporters), draw internet buzz over “Leni Leaks" or the supposed leak of online messages about Vice President Robredo’s supporters supposedly planning propaganda against Duterte. In January 19, the public image of the Philippine National Police (PNP) took a beating after news surfaced that a Korean businessman, Jee Ick Joo, had been strangled to death in October 2016 at the hands of policemen inside Camp Crame, the police headquarters in Manila. The Duterte administration apologized over the incident and promised justice for Jee. The PNP, having long been under fire for its efforts to eradicate the drug problem, was further scrutinized after the incident. In January 25, Duterte told an audience that he hoped 'ugly women' die. In January 26, the first petition against the PNP’s Oplan TokHang campaign was filed before the Supreme Court (SC), seeking protection for the families of victims killed in the anti-drug operations. The government suspended its anti-drug war on January 30, officially ending the Philippine Drug War. On the same day, the country hosted the Miss Universe pageant, won by France's Iris Mittenaere. In January 31, the SC issued a writ of amparo for the drug war victims’ families. On the same day, Amnesty International published a report of their investigation of 59 drug-related killings in 20 cities and towns, "If you are poor you are killed": Extrajudicial Executions in the Philippines' "War on Drugs", which "details how the police have systematically targeted mostly poor and defenceless people across the country while planting 'evidence', recruiting paid killers, stealing from the people they kill and fabricating official incident reports." They stated: "Amnesty International is deeply concerned that the deliberate, widespread and systematic killings of alleged drug offenders, which appear to be planned and organized by the authorities, may constitute crimes against humanity under international law." A police officer with the rank of Senior Police Officer 1, a ten-year veteran of a Metro Manila anti-illegal drugs unit, told AI that police are paid 8,000 pesos (US $161) to 15,000 pesos (US $302) per "encounter" (the term used for extrajudicial executions disguised as legitimate operations); there is no payment for making arrests. He said that some police also receive a payment from the funeral home they send the corpses to. Hitmen hired by police are paid 5,000 pesos (US $100) for each drug user killed and 10,000 to 15,000 pesos (US $200–300) for each "drug pusher" killed, according to two hitmen interviewed by AI.

February

Senator Leila De Lima, a multi-awarded critic of the Philippine Drug War, was arrested prior to the beginning of her trial.

In February, Duterte called former Colombian president Cesar Gaviria an 'idiot'. In February 18, thousands of Catholics gathered in Manila, opposing the revival of the death penalty and calling for an end of killings amid Duterte's war on drugs. Duterte has repeatedly expressed his intent to legalize the death penalty in the Philippines. In February 20, Arturo Lascañas, a retired police officer, told reporters at a press conference outside the senate building that as a leader of the Davao Death Squad he had carried out extrajudicial killings on the orders of Duterte. He said death squad members were paid 20,000 to 100,000 pesos ($400 to $2,000) per hit, depending on the importance of the target. He gave details of various killings he had carried out on Duterte's orders, including the previously unsolved murder of a radio show host critical of Duterte, and confessed to his involvement with Matobato in the bombing of a mosque on Duterte's orders. On the following day the senate voted in a private session to reopen the investigation, reportedly by a margin of ten votes to eight, with five abstentions. In February 24, after several months of controversies, senator and international human rights activist Leila de Lima was ordered arrested, days after the Department of Justice, under Vitaliano Aguirre II, filed charges against her for allegedly receiving drug money from convicts. Her former driver Ronnie Dayan was also arrested. The arrest sparked massive protests in many cities in the country, while Amnesty International, Human Rights Campaign, and other international human rights organizations designated De Lima a "prisoner of conscience". Following De Lima's arrest, the Senate stripped 3 Liberal Party (LP) senators and their ally of committee chairmanships, prompting the LP senators to shift to the minority bloc. In February 25, during the celebration of 31st anniversary of People Power Revolution, an altercation between APO Hiking Society musical group member and Duterte critic Jim Paredes and young pro-Duterte supporters was recorded on phone. During the protest, hundreds of pro-democracy protesters expressed their dismay on Duterte's war on drugs and the arrest of senator De Lima. In contrast, only a handful of so-called "youth" Duterte supporters (aged 30 and above) showed up. In February 27, the Abu Sayyaf beheaded a German national, the 3rd foreigner to be beheaded by the local terror group in the last 10 months.

March

New Bilibid Prison held male death row inmates before the abolition of death penalty. In March 7, 2017, the House of Representatives voted to re-introduce capital punishment in the Philippines, a Duterte policy. However, the Senate was not in favor of the legislation, thus the death penalty remained illegal in the country.

In March 6, Lascañas gave evidence at the Senate committee, testifying that he had killed approximately 200 criminal suspects, media figures and political opponents on Duterte's orders. On the same day, two months after it was suspended, the PNP relaunched the Philippine Drug War, vowing to make it “less bloody, if not bloodless.” In March 8, a protest was organized by the Gabriela Women's Party in Manila as part of the International Women's Day celebrations. On the same day, the Kadamay housing project protests began. The protests were organized by urban poor group, Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay), who blamed Duterte for idle housing projects in Pandi, Bulacan. The massive protest only ended 27 days later on April 4. Additionally, on March 8, the Commission on Appointments rejected the appointment of Perfecto Yasay Jr., then the foreign affairs secretary, over questions on his citizenship. Yasay had lied under oath and had owned a US passport, despite his denials. In March 15, pro-Duterte supporters criticized Vice President Robredo after she sent a video message to a UN meeting side event where she mentions the rising body count in the Philippines’ drug war. In March 17, European lawmakers called for the release of De Lima, urging the government to ensure a fair trial and to drop politically motivated charges against her. In March 19, Duterte called European Union officials 'fools'. In March 22, Duterte told media that Vice President Leni Robredo wants him out. He continued saying that he will abide if Robredo 'marries' him. In March 23, a group calling themselves the "Impeach Leni" movement prepared an impeachment complaint against the Vice President, accusing Robredo of peddling lies. This came after an impeachment complaint was also filed against Duterte, alleging that he culpably violated the Constitution, engaged in bribery, betrayed the public trust, committed graft and corruption and other high crimes. In March 30, Duterte called the Prietos of Philippine Daily Inquirer and the Lopezes of ABS-CBN as 'stinks'.

April

In April 2, calling the event the "Palit-Bise" rally, some pro-Duterte supporters gathered at Rizal Park in Manila, following Vice President Leni Robredo's delivered statement, through video, to the international community about the series of killings during the war on drugs. In April 3, Duterte called United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Raad Al Hussein's head 'empty'. In April 4, Duterte called former interior secretary Ismael Sueno a 'son of a bitch'. On the same day, the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, authored by senator Bam Aquino, was signed into law, paving the way for free college education in all state universities and colleges nationwide. In April 5, a survey saw Duterte’s trust rating dipped, losing trust among the poorest, while gaining trust among the richest. In April 7, the issue of idle government housing came to light following the takeover by members of urban poor group Kadamay of vacant housing units in Pandi, Bulacan. In April 11, at least 10 people were killed after government forces foiled an attack by the Abu Sayyaf group in Bohol. In April 19, Reuters reported that many Filipino cops were "paid" to "kill drug suspects" and "plant [drug] evidence[s]" to justify the drug killings. In April 20, Duterte and his fiercest critic, Senator De Lima, were featured on the TIME list of the 100 Most Influential People in the world. Duterte's write-up was written by former Colombian president César Gaviria, while De Lima’s write-up was written by former United States ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power. In April 23, over 7,000 Filipinos have been killed in the name of the Philippine Drug War. The death toll included both the people killed during police operations and vigilante-style killings. In April 24, Filipino lawyer Jude Sabio filed a complaint against Duterte and several senior government officials before the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged "mass murder" in the Philippines. In April 25, a Filipino lawyer filed a complaint at the International Criminal Court (ICC) accusing president Rodrigo Duterte and 11 other Philippine officials of mass murder and crimes against humanity. In April 26, the Supreme Court moved forward with the electoral protest filed by losing vice presidential candidate Bongbong Marcos, son of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, against incumbent Vice President Leni Robredo. In April 27, Duterte called John Nery of Philippine Daily Inquirer as 'pretentious; son of a bitch'. On the same day, he called The New York Times as an 'asshole'. In April 29, the Philippines hosted the 30th ASEAN Summit and related meetings.

Duterte and Russian President Vladimir Putin meeting in Moscow, May 23, 2017

May

In May 2, the Duterte administration defended its anti-drug war and human rights record before the UN. The Philippine delegation, led by Alan Peter Cayetano, argued that illegal drug use has been a longtime problem in the Philippines and it needed to be urgently addressed through the drug war. Although the government acknowledged that human rights violations may have resulted from the summary executions, the government maintained that the killings were not state-sponsored. In May 3, the Commission on Appointments (CA) rejected the environment secretary appointment of Gina Lopez. Majority of CA members were both mining investors and Duterte allies. In May 8, the Court of Appeals acquitted alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles in the illegal detention case against her, reversing the 2015 conviction of a Makati court, sparking a nationwide protest against the acquittal. Duterte afterwards criticized TIME Magazine, saying, "Son of a bitch, this Time magazine, they put me among the despots. I'm not—, am I a dictator? Since when?" On the same day, 45 United Nations member states, namely, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Holy See, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Iraq, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Timor Leste, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, and Venezuela, expressed concern over the spate of killings and called for a human rights-based approach on the 'bloody' Philippine Drug War. In May 10, Duterte appointed longtime supporter and DDS blogger Mocha Uson as Palace communications assistant secretary, saying it was payment for a debt of gratitude for the popular blogger’s support during the election campaign. The move received divided reactions on social media. In May 15, on the first day of public hearings, the House justice committee junked the first impeachment complaint filed against Duterte, finding it "sufficient in form but insufficient in substance." In May 16, Duterte insulted the capabilities of women to lead, further stating, "I want a person who is admired by people because of his integrity. Of course it could not be a politician, especially not a woman." In May 18, imprisoned senator Leila de Lima, was recognized as a "Global Woman Human Rights Defender" by an international human rights organization. On the same day, Ferdinand Marcelino, along with his Chinese asset, Yan Yi Shou, were released after their drug-related case was dropped. In May 19, amid the Philippines’ friendlier ties with China, Duterte said that Chinese President Xi Jinping warned him that China would go to war if the Philippines "forces the issue" of the arbitral ruling on the South Sea China. Several senators questioned Duterte’s tolerance of China’s war threat, while SC senior associate justice Antonio Carpio said that the Philippines can sue China for making such a threat. On the same day, Duterte criticized former foreign affairs secretary Albert del Rosario for giving him advises in diplomacy; he also called the ABS-CBN company a 'thief'. In May 20, the Armed Forces of the Philippines burned down an entire community of Lumad people, which included a school and 35 houses in the Soccksargen region of Mindanao. In May 23, Duterte went to Russia for an official visit, to speak with his self-declared “idol”, Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting was cut short after clashes erupted between government forces and the Maute terror group on May 23 in a small Muslim city, which led to Duterte declaring martial law in all of Mindanao's six regions. A day later, on May 24, Duterte said he "is considering expanding" the declaration of martial law to cover the "entire Philippines" if needed, citing the threat of terrorism. On the same day, due to Duterte's threats to expand martial rule, various groups gathered at Mendiola Street, Quezon City and Quiapo, Manila, calling on the president to revoke his declarations. In May 29, imprisoned senator Leila de Lima wrote her iconic 94th letter while in prison, stating "People choose to be passive, perhaps because they feel responsible for voting for him—but no. You are not responsible for what he does after you vote for him. You are, however, responsible for letting him get away with things like this with your silence. By electing him, he has not bought your souls and conscience — on the contrary, he now owes you his accountability." On the same day, an "anti-martial law" protest was held throughout the nation's capital region. In May 31, Duterte humiliated former US presidential daughter Chelsea Clinton, asking her opinion on her father's alleged affair with Lewinsky. On the same day, Duterte criticized Associate Justice Antonio Carpio for 'yapping' advises on Philippine sovereignty.

June

In June 1, Duterte's 13-year-old daughter Veronica 'Kitty' Duterte, was criticized for using public funds for a tour in Russia. The presidential daughter fired back, saying "fuck you losers", "stupidass motherfucker", and "fuckkk you more" to her criticizers. In June 2, Metro Manila was rocked by an attack in a posh entertainment complex, after a lone gunman stormed Resorts World Manila in Pasay City and set gaming tables on fire. The incident sparked fears of terrorism, which the police quickly debunked, saying it was a case of robbery. Thirty-eight individuals, including the gunman, died in the incident. The management of Resorts World afterwards faced congressional probes over the incident. In June 3, Duterte called Diego García Sayán, UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, a "son of a whore", adding that he does "not recognize [Sayan's] rapporteur title." On the same day, Marcos, Ilocos Norte mayor Arsenio Agustin was gunned down while inspecting a water impounding project. In June 7, two major Philippine banks suffered glitches. The Bank of the Islands suffers a system glitch that caused mispostings in its clients’ accounts, prompting the bank to suspend access to its electronic channels to rectify the error. BDO Unibank also said it received reports of “potentially compromised” automated teller machines after customers complained of unauthorized transactions. On the same day, Bien Unido, Bohol mayor Gisela Bendong-Boniel was abducted and believed to have been killed. Her remains were never found. In June 10, Balete, Batangas mayor Leovino Hidalgo was gunned down by unidentified men during a local sports event. In June 12, Duterte's health was again questioned after he skipped the Independence Day rites in Luneta, his first independence day celebration as President. From June 13–15, the Supreme Court held its 3-day oral arguments on the martial law declaration, with petitioners saying there was no basis to declare martial rule on the grounds of invasion or rebellion. Citing exhaustion, Duterte went missing from the public eye for 5 days to rest. In June 16, the Supreme Court, sitting as the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET), ordered the creation of a panel to preside over the Marcos-Robredo electoral case. In June 17, the President made his first public appearance when he visited a locality in Agusan del Norte. His absence, especially as the Battle of Marawi was ongoing, fueled speculations about his health, with at least 3 senators demanding full disclosure of the President’s health. In June 21, members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters launched an attack in North Cotabato's Pigcawayan town, occupying a school and using civilians as human shields. The human shield victims were later rescued. In June 22, after 3 long years, the plunder trial for the multi-billion-peso pork barrel scam began. Fighting continued to rage in Marawi City as government forces clash with the Maute Group. The death toll rose to close to 400 after a month of fighting. Reuters reported that "Police were sending corpses to hospitals to destroy evidence at crime scenes and hide the fact that they were executing drug suspects." Doctors stated that corpses loaded onto trucks were being dumped at hospitals, sometimes after rigor mortis had already set in, with clearly unsurvivable wounds, having been shot in the chest and head at close range. Reuters examined data from two Manila police districts, and found that the proportion of suspects sent to hospitals, where they are pronounced dead on arrival (DOA), increased from 13% in July 2016 to 85% in January 2017; "The totals grew along with international and domestic condemnation of Duterte's campaign." In June 30, democracy group, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, expressed their disappointment for Duterte's first year in office. They called to stop airstrikes in Marawi, where the crisis took place. The group stated that instances of expressing disappointments are due to the failing war on drugs, independent foreign policy and peace talks.

July

President Duterte abolished the Negros Island Region in August 9, 2017 through Executive Order No. 38.

In July 2, following of the deaths of suspected drug users in Caloocan, hundreds of Catholics joined the march to stop the extrajudicial killings. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Kalookan said that the killings are not the solution of wiping out drug use in the country. In July 17, Duterte accused Ombudsman and Ramon Magsaysay awardee Conchita Carpio-Morales as 'corrupt'. In July 22, Duterte called Teodoro Casiño 'arrogant' due to Casiño dissent on the Philippine Drug War. On the same day, in a special joint session requested by President Duterte, the Congress of the Philippines voted 261–18 to extend the martial law in Mindanao until December 31, 2017. In July 18, youth groups from St. Scholastica Manila, General Santos City, and Cebu City staged protests against Duterte for the government's ongoing war on drugs. In July 21, eight people were arrested after invading the Congress session on martial law. In July 24, Duterte made international headlines after he ordered the military to bomb Lumad children's schools in Mindanao, accusing the Lumad peoples of aiding communist rebels. On the same day, several groups protested the second State of the Nation Address by Duterte and his declarations against the indigenous Lumads of Mindanao. In July 30, Reynaldo Parojinog, the mayor of Ozamiz City, was killed along with 14 others, including his wife Susan, in a dawn raid at around 2:30 am on his home in San Roque Lawis. According to police, they were on a search warrant when Parojinog's bodyguards opened fire on them and police officers responded by shooting at them. According to police provincial chief Jaysen De Guzman, authorities recovered grenades, ammunition and illegal drugs in the raid.

August

Barangay 160, Caloocan, where Kian delos Santos was brutally killed by police.

In August 2, Duterte threatened to 'behead' former president Benigno Aquino III. In August 3 and 5, Duterte criticized senators Antonio Trillanes IV and Risa Hontiveros due to their dissent for the drug war. In August 8, the Supreme Court of the Philippines junked all petitions against the burial of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, re-affirming its earlier ruling on 8 November 2016, causing a nationwide protest. In August 9, Duterte claimed that he went to Cam Crame to see the 'crazy woman', referring to his nemesis, imprisoned senator Leila de Lima. On the same day, Duterte abolished the Negros Island Region through Executive Order no. 38. The region was created in 2015 by his predecessor, former president Noynoy Aquino, under the initiative of Duterte's political enemy, Mar Roxas. The region voted for Roxas during the 2016 elections via a landslide. In August 16, Duterte ordered in jest to the police to kill those who are part of human rights organizations. On the same day, over 32 people were killed on multiple "one-time, big-time" antidrug operations in Bulacan within one day. In Manila, 25 people, including 11 suspected robbers, are also killed in consecutive anti-criminality operations. The multiple deaths in the large-scale antidrug operations received condemnation from human rights groups and majority of the Senate. The Commission on Appointments (CA) rejected the social welfare secretary appointment of Judy Taguiwalo. On August 17, Kian Loyd delos Santos, a 17-year-old Grade 11 student, was shot dead on an anti-drug operation in Caloocan. CCTV footage appeared to show Kian being dragged by two policemen, while Kian was pleading for his life. Police said they killed him in self-defense, and retrieved a gun and two packets of methamphetamine. However, eyewitnesses and CCTV footage showed that Kian had no arms whatsoever, and had no means of defending himself as he was shot while kneeling on the ground. Delos Santos was the son of an overseas Filipino worker, a key demographic in support of Duterte. The teenager's death caused condemnation by numerous senators and international human rights organizations. His funeral on August 25, attended by more than a thousand people, became one of the largest funerary protest to date against the Drug War. Additionally, Carl Angelo Arnaiz, a 19-year-old teenager, last found in Cainta, Rizal, was tortured and shot dead also in August 17 (the same date Kian delos Santos was killed) by police after "robbing" a taxi in Caloocan. There were no concrete evidences that Arnaiz robbed a taxi. His 14-year-old friend, Reynaldo de Guzman, also called under the nickname "Kulot", was stabbed to death thirty times and thrown into a creek in Gapan, Nueva Ecija. Along with the deaths of Kian delos Santos, the deaths of the two teenagers also received public outrage and condemnation. Also on August 17, the Commission on Appointments rejected the social welfare secretary appointment of Judy Taguiwalo, who Duterte used as a scapegoat. Additionally, Duterte made a speech against all protesters and criticizers of his regime, stating, "I am the president. Either you kill me or you follow me... son of a bitch, we have to kill each other." He added, "Magtiis kayo sa gutom, wala akong paki!" (Die in hunger, I don't care!). In August 18, youth group Kabataan protested against the continual killings under the Duterte administration. In August 21, protests were held at the People Power Monument and other parts of Metro Manila, in condemnation of the killing of 17-year-old student Kian delos Santos during the anti-drug operation in Caloocan. In August 25, Overseas Filipino groups from Saudi Arabia, London, Hong Kong, Canada, Italy, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand, Thailand and Japan protested the killing of Kian delos Santos and other deaths linked to the war on drugs. In August 28, Duterte criticized UN Rapporteur on Extrajudicial Killings Agnes Callamard for her dissenting views on the Philippine Drug War. Duterte called the rapporteur a "son of a bitch" and a "fool". In August 29, Duterte accused Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales of 'selective justice'.

September

Supporters of Duterte (left) and protesters against Duterte (right) during the National Day of Protest in September 21, 2017.

In September 5, at least 30 Lumad schools were confirmed to have closed down after Duterte's order to the military to bomb the schools last July. In September 6, the Commission on Appointments rejected the agrarian reform secretary appointment of Rafael V. Mariano. In September 7, senator Antonio Trillanes accused presidential son and Davao city vice mayor Paolo Duterte of having links with Triad, one of the many branches of Chinese transnational organized crime syndicates. Senator Trillanes cited a specific 'dragon-like tattoo' at the back of Paulo Duterte, signifying official membership in the syndicate. Paolo Duterte admitted that he has a tattoo at the back but refused to give details on the matter. On the same day, youth groups gathered in front of Camp Crame, the national headquarters of the Philippine National Police, calling for the justice of young teenagers — especially Kian delos Santos, Carl Angelo Arnaiz and Reynaldo de Guzman — killed in the drug war. In September 8, following the series of deaths among teenagers amid the war on drugs, hundreds of protesters gathered at the University of the Philippines Diliman, the most academically-excellent educational institution in the country. In September 9, Human Rights Watch repeated their call for a UN investigation. HRW Asia director Phelim Kine commented: "The apparent willingness of Philippine police to deliberately target children for execution marks an appalling new level of depravity in this so-called drug war". Duterte called the deaths of Arnaiz and de Guzman (the former being a relative of the President on his mother's side) a "sabotage", believing that some groups are using the Philippine National Police to destroy the president's public image. In September 11, senator Risa Hontiveros, a Nobel Prize nominee, called for the removal of Vitaliano Aguirre II, the justice secretary who previously initiated the imprisonment of senator Leila de Lima, after she presented to the Senate clear visual evidences (photographed by the media) where Aguirre was shown plotting to divert falsified cases against Hontiveros during the height of a September 5 Senate investigation on teenager and children drug war killings. The evidences showed that Aguirre was texting former Negros Oriental congressman and now Duterte-sponsored Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) member Jacinto "Jing" Paras to 'expedite' cases against Hontiveros after Jing Paras texted Aguirre that 'Hontiveros already coached the witnesses'. On the same day, Coinciding with what would have been the late former President Ferdinand Marcos's 100th birthday, protesters march towards the Heroes' Cemetery, where Marcos was buried ten months ago. On the same day, coinciding with what would have been the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos's 100th birthday, protesters marched towards the Heroes' Cemetery, where Marcos was buried ten months ago. The protest was made in another bid to exhume the Marcos remains and remove them from the country's cemetery for heroes. In September 12, Aguirre accused Hontiveros of violating the anti-wiretapping law and told the media that he plans to file cases against Hontiveros and bring the senator to jail, to which Hontiveros retaliated questioning Aguirre's dodging actions. She challenged Aguirre to prove her evidences wrong, to which Aguirre never responded to. In September 13, Duterte threatened Philippine Commission on Human Rights chief Chito Gascon for 'meddling' against the drug war. He also accused Gascon of being a pedophile for wanting to have justice for the minors killed under the Philippine Drug War. In September 15, an negative effigy of Duterte, along with the U.S. President Donald Trump, were displayed along the streets of Metro Manila. In September 16, as a result of involvement in the deaths of teenagers like Kian delos Santos, Carl Angelo Arnaiz and Reynaldo de Guzman, and robbing of a drug suspect in an antidrug raid, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Oscar Albayalde ordered the firing and retraining of all members of the Caloocan City Police, with the exception of its newly appointed chief and its deputy. In September 21, on the 45th anniversary of the declaration of the 1972 martial law under dictator Ferdinand Marcos, thousands of unarmed Filipinos rallied against the Duterte administration using signs of "Stop the killings" and "No to martial law", sparking Duterte to send in the military to control the protests. The protest, officially known as the "National Day of Protest", was one of the largest of its kind in a decade. In September 22, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro vice mayor Jackson Cinco Dy was gunned down by unidentified men. In September 29, student activists stormed the Polytechnic University of the Philippines president's office, in protest against the university president's support on Duterte's war on drugs.

October

Lanao del Sur officials visit the so-called "Ground Zero" or "Main Battle Area" in Marawi for the first time following the end of the conflict.

In October 2, justice secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II filed an anti-wiretapping complaint against senator Risa Hontiveros. The complaint never moved in the process at it lacked substantial validity. In October 10, a group of farmers, led by former Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael Mariano, protested the continuous killing of farmers under the Duterte regime. The group also called onto government to stop the ongoing martial law in Mindanao. In October 12, Duterte announced the transfer of anti-drug operations to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), ending the involvement of the Philippine National Police (PNP). The announcement followed the publication of an opinion poll on October 8, showing a drop in presidential approval from 66% to 48%. This is amidst the political storm and public outrage on the murders of minors by the Caloocan City police, and the various murder cases allegedly done by other law enforcement agents that surfaced in mainstream and social media. In a televised speech, Duterte scoffed and mocked the "bleeding hearts" who sympathized with those killed in the drug war, pointedly at the European Union, whom he accused of interfering with Philippine sovereignty. In October 13, Duterte threatened the opposition that he shall declare a de facto authoritarian government through a revolutionary government that will hinder liberalism in the Philippines. In October 14, cause-oriented group, Tindig Pilipinas, launched a signature drive urging Duterte to sign a bank secrecy waiver to end doubts on his supposed unexplained wealth. In October 16–17, transport group Piston conducted a nationwide protest against the government's plans of phasing out the traditional jeepneys, which thousands depend on for livelihood. Elsewhere, several groups are seen protesting, apparently not connected to the Piston's. Also on October 16, terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute were reportedly killed during the operation of rescuing the hostages in the Battle of Marawi, as confirmed by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. In October 17, Duterte told media that he intends to 'target' Lucio Tan, chairman and CEO of LT Group of Companies, so he could have him 'circumcised again'. Duterte added that he will employ the help of the military. In October 19, led by Anakbayan, youth groups gathered at the seventh gate of Malacañang Palace, calling for the justice of alleged extrajudicial killing victims and militarization of other parts of the country. Additionally, a coalition called "Coalition for Land, Against Martial Law and Oppression" (CLAMOR) was formed. They claimed that 80 farmers have been killed under the Duterte administration. On the same day, Duterte confirmed that he fired Gertrudo de Leon due to 'corruption', however, no cases were filed against him. On the same day, Duterte accused senator Francis Pangilinan of promoting criminality. In October 23, about 500 farmers gathered at the Department of Agrarian Reform headquarters to protest the alleged killings of farmers and people calling for proper land reforms. On the same day, the AFP cleared the final ISIL-held building in Marawi, fully recapturing the city. General Eduardo Año stated bodies of 42 dead militants were found in two buildings and a mosque in the battle zone, stating that it was possible that some militants were still hiding. The bodies also included two wives of Maute gunmen. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced the end of the Battle of Marawi and the end of combat operations in the area. He added that the Malaysian terrorist Amin Bacu was believed to among those 42 dead militants. Intelligence sources later stated that he was among the last three or four militants who could have escaped. The casualties of the war included 974 militants killed (13 foreigners), 12 militants captured (1 foreigner), 168 government forces killed (12 by friendly fire), 1,400+ government forces wounded, and 87 civilians dead (40 due to illness). The Department of Interior and Local Government has announced that the rehabilitation efforts has already begun by October 18, 2017, prior to the declaration of the end of the war. In October 25, thousands of farmers marched towards Mendiola Street in protest against the farmer killings in the country. By October 27, 2017 a few days after the conflict ended in Marawi, the Armed Forces of the Philippines dissolved its Joint Task Force Marawi which marks the start of full-scale rehabilitation of Marawi. The military set up Joint Task Force Ranao to replace the defunct task force to facilitate the Rehabilitation of Marawi. On the same day, Australia, Japan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Asian Development Bank (ADB), European Union (EU), World Bank, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) pitched their support for rehabilitation efforts. In an October 28 speech before ASEAN representatives, Duterte tried to refute all extrajudicial killings related to the War on Drugs by stating that these stories only serves as a political agenda in order to demonize him. He stated that he has only used his mouth to tell drug users that they will be killed. He stated that "..."shabu" (crystal meth) users have shrunken brains, which is why they have become violent and aggressive, leading to their deaths." Duterte further added that all the drug pushers and their henchmen always carry their guns with them and killing them is justifiable so that they would not endanger the lives of his men. Duterte appointed a human rights lawyer, Harry Roque, a Kabayan partylist representative, as his spokesperson. Roque stated that he will change public perception by reducing the impact of the statements of Duterte that advocates extra-judicial killings in his war on drugs.

November

Protesters against the martial law in Mindanao and the Philippine Drug War.

In November 1, imprisoned senator Leila de Lima received the Prize for Freedom, the highest award in the world for liberal personalities. Duterte criticized the organization for giving the award to de Lima who he claims to be a 'drug lord protector', despite no clear evidences presented in court or the media. On November 2, 2018, 14-year old Philippine Drug War critic and activist Shibby de Guzman was named by TIME Magazine as one of "The 30 Most Influential Teens" for 2017, angering president Duterte who disagreed with the accolade. The recognition met wide public approval in the Philippines. On the same day, a group of lawyers formed the "Manlaban sa EJK" (Manananggol Laban sa Extra Judicial Killings, English: Defend Against Extra Judicial Killings), and called on Duterte to resign following the series of extrajudicial killing in the country. In November 5, during the "Lord, Heal Our Land" event, led by Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas, thousands of opponents of Duterte attended a mass held in EDSA shrine. Tindig Pilipinas key people, Senator Antonio Trillanes and Representative Gary Alejano also attended the event.

Duterte with Russian prime minister Dmitry Medvedev. Duterte has imposed a policy wherein most of the country's military purchasing power will be spent on Russian and Chinese arms during his presidency.

In November 9, Duterte threatened to 'slap' Agnes Callamard if she investigates him. On the same day, he called Columbia University professor Carl Hart for bringing a black doctor to television, while spreading lies concerning drugs. Additionally, a series of protests erupted in Metro Manila against the visit of U.S. President Donald Trump. The protest was continuous from November 9 to November 14. In November 14, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada raised concerns on the Philippine Drug War with Duterte, to which Duterte retaliated saying raising the issue is 'an insult'. In November 16, an Amnesty International report blamed the militants and government forces of widespread abuses, some of which amount to war crimes. It was based on interviews with 48 survivors and witnesses, as well as local leaders, journalists and activists. It accused pro-ISIL fighters of extrajudicial killings and hostage-taking while accusing soldiers of mistreating people in custody. It also stated that government shelling caused widespread destruction in Marawi, civilians were trapped in crossfire and all parties engaged in looting. Per the report, the pro-ISIL fighters targeted Christians or anyone who couldn't recite Shahada (profession of Muslim faith). Victims of pro-ISIL fighters were either held hostage or killed. Amnesty documented at least 25 extrajudicial killings at their hands. Hostages were tortured and abused, made to forage for food, collected and buried cadavers, dug foxholes for fighters, made IEDs, were forced to fight the Army or used as sex slaves. Those attempting to escape were shot or beheaded, Amnesty said. Amnesty also reported that several survivors accused that they were shot at, beaten and tortured by Philippine Marines to make them confess of being an ISIL member, with one survivor stating he was doused with a hot liquid. Witnesses also said that 10 hostages were killed in air strikes by pro-government forces. It questioned whether civilian deaths and "large-scale destruction" in government air and ground attacks were "militarily necessary and proportional to the threat posed" by the fighters. It also questioned whether the operations met the requirements under international humanitarian law based on the fact that the military carried out bombings even after it declared only a few militants remained alive. AFP reiterated its commitment to protecting human rights in response to the report by Amnesty International. AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla said soldiers accused of abuses will be investigated and those found guilty will be disciplined. He gave filing of looting charges against an army officer and five soldiers as an example of the commitment. In response to claims of "disproportionate air and ground attacks" by AFP, he asked the public to take into consideration the difficulties faced by it. In November 20, Duterte once again threatened the opposition that he shall declare a de facto authoritarian government through an anti-liberal revolutionary government. In November 23, Duterte signed Proclamation No. 360 which declares the termination of peace talks with communist rebels. In November 24, on the eve of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, hundreds of protesting women gathered at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani, the memorial of the people killed in the extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administration. On the same day, the University of the Philippines Diliman launched the annual Oblation Run to protest the first year mark of the controversial burial of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. In November 28, after hearing that Pope Francis sent a rosary to imprisoned senator Leila de Lima, Duterte told media that he intends to show de Lima's alleged sex video to the Pope, which he said may lead to the Pope to vacate the papacy. In November 30, both anti and pro-Duterte groups gathered in separate places across Metro Manila to protest and support Duterte's proposed revolutionary government.

December

Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese president Xi Jinping with their wives.

In December 1, the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity of the University of the Philippines Diliman called for an end to drug-related killings and the resumption of peace talks between the government and communist rebels, which Duterte formally ceased it on November 23. In December 3, the government announced that there would be 'no public bidding for Marawi projects'. In December 5, Nueva Ecija priest Marcelito Paez was shot dead hours after assisting in the facilitation of the release of a Duterte-era political prisoner in Cabanatuan. On the same day, Duterte signed a proclamation formally designating the CPP-NPA a terrorist group. In November 6, hundreds protested at Camp Aguinaldo. On the same day, Evacuees from Mindanao arrived in Metro Manila to protest against the extension of martial law. In December 7, hundreds of youths, led by Anakbayan and other groups, gathered at Mendiola Street, protesting the series of killings and human rights abuses under the Duterte regime. In December 8, the Karapatan group asked the United Nations to probe the killings of the Lumad (indigenous peoples of Mindanao), after eight T’boli and Dulangan Manobo farmers were killed by members of the 27th and 33rd Infantry Battalions of the Philippine Army. In December 11, democratic groups in Naga, Camarines Sur, the hometown of Vice President Leni Robredo, protested the killings in the country as part of the International Human Rights Day celebrations. In December 13, University of Santo Tomas students protested the extension of martial law. In December 14, tensions escalated in the Senate after the chair of the blue ribbon committee, Duterte-ally and senator Richard "Dick" J. Gordon 'hogged' the hearings, to an extent where he intentionally silenced other senators from speaking through a silencing machine or through shouting. Some senators walked out of the hearing, while Gordon was branded by social media as a 'hog' stating only a scripted 'monologue'. The hearing was about the supposed intentional liability of former president Benigno Aquino III, who Duterte vowed to 'behead' a few months ago. In December 18, Duterte again announced after 12 months that he intends to make senator Manny Pacquiao his successor in the 2022 presidential elections. In December 19, Duterte signed into law the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN Law), which slightly increased the take-home pay of workers but also increased the taxes on and prices of goods nationwide. The signing of the law exponentially increased the country's inflation rate and diminished the strength of the Philippine peso. In December 29, the police force killed two civilians after they 'mistook' them for gunmen. One of the civilians killed was a woman being rushed to the hospital.

2018

January

Indigenous Lumad people appeal to the government to stop the bombings and militarization of their communities and schools. Community schools in Lumads has been alleged to have ties with communist rebels. Holding his suspicions, Duterte has repeatedly threatened the military to bomb Lumad schools last July 24 and Nov 17, 2017.

In January 1, 2018, New Year's Day, Duterte-ally and senator Sherwin Gatchalian resorted to Twitter after evidences of betrayal surfaced. Gatchalian sent tirades against former president Benigno Aquino III, to which a netizen tweeted him back with copies of his own statements clearly from 2012. The tweets showed Gatchalian praising former president Aquino when Gatchalian was still a rising politician under the Aquino administration. Netizens branded Gatchalian a balimbing (political turncoat), to which Gatchalian attacked back with a series of derogatory tweets such as, "Gago!" (Stupid)", "Ulol!" (Fool), and "Gago! Anong year yan???" (Stupid! What year is that???). In January 4, Gatchalian declared that he will never apologize, causing netizens to tweet him back with reminders that they were the peoples who pay his salary. In January 5, 2018, presidential son Paolo Duterte resigned from his post as vice mayor of Davao city after controversy sparked regarding his relationship with an international drug syndicate based in China and his peddling influence at the Bureau of Customs. On the same day, supporters of detained Senator Leila de Lima — 11 months after she was arrested for allegedly violating the drug trafficking law — gathered at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court, calling for her release. In January 15, protesters gathered at various public market sites, calling for the revocation of Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act, a law that has increased the cost of goods exponentially since December 2017. In January 16, Duterte accused internationally awarded news site Rappler for fake news. In January 18, students from UP Diliman protested the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) order of shutting down the operating license of the internationally awarded online news site Rappler. Aside from that, other issues in the country were included in the protest such as the proliferation of fake news spread by Duterte's social media allies. Additionally, also on January 18, Filipino Congressman Gary Alejano revealed that Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano of the Department of Foreign Affairs had approved the Chinese Institute of Oceanology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences to perform a scientific survey of the Philippine (Benham) Rise, with the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte's spokesperson, Harry Roque, later confirmed Alejano's revelation, and said that Filipinos have 'no capability' to research the Rise. Massive backlash surged as numerous Filipino research proofs from university professors and researchers were leaked. In January 19, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) held a protest at the 11th World Scout Jamboree Memorial Rotonda between Timog and Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City against the SEC's order to rescind Rappler's operating license. The protest, dubbed the "Black Friday Protest for Freedom", calls for freedom of the press in the administration. In January 22, Duterte called Joma Sison a 'conceited demon', a month after the peace talks were scrapped. On the same day, Duterte's spokesperson, Harry Roque, stated that 'China was right' in saying that the Philippines has no sovereignty over the Benham Rise, sparking nationwide outrage. In January 24, transportation group PISTON held a protest against jeepney phaseout. In January 25, farmer's group Kadamay gathered at the various market sites as well in Manila to protest against the TRAIN law. In January 26, Gabriela Women's Party held a protest against the TRAIN law. On the same day, several groups such as NUJP, Anakbayan and UP Diliman held a protest and concert against the imminent closure of Rappler, TRAIN law and other issues such as human rights abuses. Duterte retaliated urging tourists to visit the Philippines, where Duterte said he wanted to let tourists experience '42 virgins' each.

February

In January 2018, the Chinese Institute of Oceanology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted research in the Philippine territory of Benham Rise, with approval from foreign affairs secretary Alan Peter Cayetano and president Duterte. Despite the nature of the agreement, no document was signed by both parties. Additionally, the research was only made public via an opposition lawmaker. The research was never meant to be made public by Duterte. In February 12, 2018, after China submitted their research to UNESCO, the International Hydrographic Organization declared China's naming rights over five features in the Rise, sparking nationwide outrage. In February 18, it was revealed that China intends to name a total of 142 more features within the Rise.

100km
62miles

5

4

3

2

1

  

Key:

1

Jinghao Seamount

2

Tianbao Seamount

3

Cuiqiao Hill

4

Jujiu Seamount

5

Haidongqing Seamount

In February 1, dubbed as "Pambansang Walkout" (English: "National Walkout"), students from various universities protested against the proposed constitutional reform (also known as "Charter Change" or "Cha-cha"), imminent closure of Rappler, TRAIN law and other issues. In February 5, it was confirmed that the military-conducted killings of Lumad peoples in Mindanao continued. Duterte ordered the military to bomb Lumad schools last July 2017, and has never withdrawn the threat. In February 6, Duterte's agriculture secretary told media that Duterte has now ordered the halting of all foreign researches in the Philippines Rise, however, the research being conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences was already finished two days before the halt order. In February 7, Duterte ordered his police and military to 'shoot' the 'vagina' of rebel women, so that rebels won't have the capability to reproduce. Afterwards, confirmed reports regarding the Philippine Rise broke out, stating that the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of the UNESCO have rules wherein the entity that first discovers unnamed features underwater have the right to name those features, prompting Filipino officials to realize that China was after, not just research, but also the naming rights over the underwater features of the Benham Rise which will be internationally recognized through UNESCO. A CSIS expert concluded that the current Philippine government is 'well-intentioned but naive'. A few days after the research halt ordered by Duterte, it was clarified by the Philippine government that all researches ongoing at the time the halting was made were officially cancelled, but the government still fully allows research activities in the Rise after the halting. Foreign researchers, including Chinese, may still do research within the Rise if they apply for research activities through the Philippine government. Due to this clarification, rallies surged in Philippine metropolitan streets. Duterte later insisted, in a bid to disperse public anxiety, that the Rise belongs to the Philippines. In February 8, Lumad groups and university groups gathered at the Supreme Court, protesting against the martial law extension. In February 12, the International Hydrographic Organization approved the names proposed by China for five features in the Benham Rise after China submitted to the organization its research findings on the area. The names given by China were all in Chinese, namely, Jinghao Seamount (some 70 nautical miles east of Cagayan), Tianbao Seamount (some 70 nautical miles east of Cagayan), Haidonquing Seamount (east at 190 nautical miles), Cuiqiao Hill, and Jujiu Seamount, the last two form the central peaks of the Benham Rise undersea geological province. The Chinese naming of the features met public protests in the Philippines, however, the Philippine government chose to impose a bystander policy, enlarging public anxiety towards the Duterte regime's buddy-buddy policy towards China. Senators Bam Aquino, Leila de Lima, Kiko Pangilinan, Antonio Trillanes, Risa Hontiveros, and Franklin Drilon protested the Chinese naming of the features and the inaction of the Duterte administration on the issue. In February 13, Duterte told an audience that all Arabs are 'stinky' after supposedly meeting with some Arabs for diplomatic talks. In February 14, Philippine ambassador to the United Nations Teodoro Locsin Jr. defended China's naming of sea features within the Philippine Rise and tweeted that critics on the issue are 'childish and stupid', sparking a word war. Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III stated that he is 'not bothered' by the Chinese names and he supports the Chinese names given by China. A few hours later, the Presidential Palace announced that it objects and it shall not recognize the Chinese names of the features and it will appeal for its rejection in the International Hydrographic Organization. The Palace spokesperson noted that it will be hard to reject the already-internationally acknowledged names as the Philippines is not a member of the organization. On the other hand, China is a member of the organization. The Philippine government also said that their embassy in Beijing will coordinate with the Chinese regarding the issue. A day later, the Palace announced that they intend to give Philippine names on the features of the Philippine Rise. However, a few hours later, the presidential palace clarified that it has 'no problem' with the Chinese names in the Philippine Rise, obnoxiously citing that 'not all Chinese food with Chinese names belong to China, so not all sea features with Chinese names belong to it as well'. Supreme Court Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, the foremost expert on Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights, stated that the government should take bolder moves and conduct research on the Philippine Rise and establish internationally accepted names of the Rise's sea features to counter Chinese intrusions. Opposition politicians condemned the childish and defeatist attitude of the Duterte government on Filipino sovereignty and sovereign rights, while the presidential palace maintained its stand that it shall 'forever will be a friend to China' despite continuous Chinese intrusions. In February 14, Eduardo V. Manalo, the executive minister of religious group, Iglesia ni Cristo, was appointed by Duterte as envoy for OFW concerns, solidifying the support of the religious group to the Duterte administration. In February 15, Duterte ally and Kingdom of Jesus Christ church leader Apollo Quiboloy, a self-declared "appointed son of God", was detained at Honolulu airport for a day after federal agents found $350,000 from the private plane that he was on. In February 16, the Duterte government sent a tiny fraction of its military personnel into Cagayan Valley to 'chase away' Chinese warships in the Rise. The foreign affairs secretary cited the deployment as the 'largest deployment of Marines to Cagayan Valley,' however, data revealed that compared to deployments in other areas of the country, the deployment in Cagayan Valley was extremely minimal. In February 17, celebrating the anniversary of Gomburza, protesters gathered at the People Power Monument in White Plains, Quezon City against "Charter Change". The families of alleged extrajudicial killings also march towards Luneta. In February 18, it was revealed that China, emboldened by the successful naming of five features in the Rise and the welcoming position of the Duterte regime, intends to name a total of 142 features within the coming months, where all proposed names shall be in native Chinese. The presidential palace stated that they are 'again, fine with it.' In February 19, Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte joked to an audience of Chinese businessmen that he intends to make the Philippines a 'province of China', sparking outrage nationwide. Various rallies commenced afterwards against his administration, however, the rallies were blocked by the police and the military. On the same day, Ronda, Cebu vice mayor Jonah John Ungab was shot dead in Cebu City. Ungab was the lawyer of suspected drug lord Kerwin Espinosa.

Duterte showing a diagram of people needed to be killed. By February 21, 2018, the death toll from the Philippine Drug War reached to 20,000 Filipinos.

In February 21, Filipino deaths under the Philippine Drug War surpassed 20,000. A prayer rally was held at People Power Monument. In February 22, the Philippine peso fell to P53 against the US dollar, its weakest state in over 11 years. On the same day, various groups gathered at the People Power Monument to hold a prayer vigil late at night, expressing opposition to the proposed charter change of Duterte. In February 23, thousands of students from different universities walked out from their classes to protest the ongoing martial law, human rights abuses and other controversies under the Duterte regime. They featured Duterte's effigy, which the protesters burned it. In February 24, thousands of Filipinos, notably the youth, rallied again against the Duterte administration. The event was known as the "Walk for Life," led by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle and Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo. The protests were held at Quirino Grandstand and other parts of the country. Supporters and colleague of detained Senator de Lima held activities to mark her first year in detention. They also gathered at the gate of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Headquarters. Former Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, former Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas visited her at jail. Additionally, thousands of protesters gathered at the People Power Monument as well to protest the proposed charter change. In February 25, thousands of protesters, opposing the charter change and other administration issues, gathered at the People Power Monument to mark the 32nd anniversary of People Power Revolution. Also, supporters of Duterte joined the march, supporting the federalism. In February 26, the Duterte government admitted during a Senate investigation that they 'lied' and that China actually surveyed the Rise without any Philippine-issued permit. On the same day, farmer's group Kadamay protested due to the lack of electric and water supplies in the country's hinterlands.

March

In March 5, Solicitor-General Jose Calida, a known Duterte ally, filed a quo warranto petition to remove Supreme Court Chief Justice and Duterte critic Maria Lourdes Sereno from office. On the same day, supporters of Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, who was currently on indefinite leave following the impeachment process against her, gathered outside the Supreme Court in protest against the ouster plot. In March 6, church group, Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC), held a rally in support of Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. On the same day, the Business Insider reported that China's debt-trap diplomacy has reached the Philippines, which would likely accept Chinese loans 1,100% more expensive than other options. In March 8, groups of women held a protest against the Duterte administration as part of the International Women's Day celebration. Additionally, advocacy group #EveryWoman launched the Facebook page, Bantay Bastos, a site that encourages the visitors to report the sexist or misogynist comments made by the public officials. In March 9, the United Nations rights chief announced that the Philippine president is in dire need for a psychiatric evaluation. From March 11–12, Chief Justice Sereno held a forum with her supporters. Meanwhile, at the front of the Supreme Court; judges, officials and judiciary members called on Sereno to resign, notably her nemesis, Justice Teresita de Castro, who was in the running for Chief Justice until Sereno won the position in 2012. In March 12, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced that China has committed to over ₱382-B in loans and grants for 'big-ticket' projects in the Philippines. On the same day, the Department of Justice under Vitaliano Aguirre II acquitted Kerwin Espinosa, Peter Lim, and 20 others from drug charges filed against them, despite Espinosa and his peers pledging guilty themselves. Duterte stated that he 'fumed' because of the acquittal, but did not do anything to intervene. Reports afterwards surfaced saying that Peter Lim was well-acquainted with the Duterte family. In March 15, supporters of detained senator Leila de Lima gathered at the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court. On the same day, a series of protests against contractualization was held in Cebu, Bacolod and Manila. Youth groups led by Kabataan protested against some principle release by Commission on Higher Education in exchange of free tuition. In March 16, senator Antonio Trillanes lambasts Duterte for his war on drugs during the UN event held in Austria. In March 19, PISTON held a protest against jeepney modernization, after Duterte rejected jeepney drivers' plea to save their only source of livelihood. Before that, jeepney operators had to work early in the morning to avoid inconvenience. In March 21, the government announced that they intend to construct a Chinese casino in Boracay by 2019. In March 28, Chinese president Xi Jinping greeted Duterte an advance happy birthday and thanked Duterte for the 'turnaround' of ties between the two countries. By end of March, a March 2018 Pulse Asia Survey showed that the opposition to Charter change (cha-cha) went up from 44 percent in July 2016 to 64 percent in March 2018, and the opposition to federalism went the same way, except by a larger margin—from 33 percent to 66 percent.

April

In April 2, it was revealed that the so-called Bangon Marawi Consortium, which would supposedly rehabilitate Marawi, was composed of 5 Chinese companies, namely, China State Construction Engineering Corporation Limited, Anhui Huali Construction Group Company Limited, China Geo Engineering Corporation, TBEA Company Limited, and Shandong Jinyuan Homes Industry Development Company Limited, and 4 Filipino companies, namely, Future Homes PH Incorporated, A Brown Company Incorporated, HS Pow Construction and Development, and SDW Realty & Development Incorporated. The consortium was being challenged by a Swiss company. On the same day, members of Akbayan Youth filed an administrative complaint against PCOO Asec. Mocha Uson, for spreading fake news in favor of the war on drugs and Duterte's stand on prostitution, rape, misogyny, and killings. In April 3, the FBI announced it is conducting investigation against Duterte ally Apollo Quiboloy and his Kingdom of Jesus Christ church for human trafficking in Hawaii. On the same day, Duterte criticized Zeid Raad Al Hussein again, calling the diplomat's head as 'empty'. Additionally, several groups held a vigil in Baguio to show support for Chief Justice Sereno. In April 4, Duterte announced that the government shall 'close down' all operations within the island of Boracay, the country's number one tourism destination, due to 'environmental concerns'. In April 5, justice secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II resigned from his post after his involvement in the controversial dismissal of the complaint against alleged drug lords was exposed. Nevertheless, he continued to deny any involvement on the matter. On the same day, Vice President Leni Robredo asked the Supreme Court to stop the 'systematic decrease' in her votes at the vice presidential recount, where the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET) used a 50% threshold in the recount, despite the Commission on Elections using a 25% threshold during the actual vice presidential elections vote counting in May 2016, where Robredo was legally declared the winner. In April 8, Duterte announced that he will allocate 60 days for the peace talks with the communist rebels to re-begin. In April 9, Duterte announced his 'love' for China, stating further that he "need(s) China more than anybody else". In April 10, Duterte admitted that the government has 'no master plan' in how to clean-up Boracay, which he called a 'cesspool'. On the same day, local and national groups in Baguio rallied against the quo warranto petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida against Chief Justice Sereno. In April 11, Pagcor, the gaming and casino arm of the government, stated that it 'provisionally' approved the building of a Chinese casino in Boracay last March. The Chinese casino will be owned by Macau-based Galaxy Entertainment headed by Lui Che-woo and Leisure and Resorts World Corp founded by Negros Occidental Representative and Duterte-ally Alfredo “Albee” Benitez. On the same day, former president Benigno Aquino III called the Dengvaxia hearing the "Dick Gordon show" after senator and Duterte-ally Richard "Dick" J. Gordon once again hogged the hearings, silencing other senators from speaking. Gordon also defended himself, saying that Aquino must be jailed. In April 13, Duterte threatened to oust Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, adding that the chief magistrate was a "stupid, son of a bitch." In April 16, worker's rights groups rallied in front of the Department of Labor and Employment headquarters, calling to end contractualization in the country. In April 17, the Department of Interior and Local Government said that there would no Chinese casinos to be built in Boracay, after concerns on the matter surfaced to national media. On the same day, workers and priests urged Duterte to sign the Executive Order ending contractualization. Meanwhile, various groups staged protests in Manila, Pasay and Quezon City in favor of the end of contratualization. Additionally, supporters of Australian missionary Sister Patricia Fox stormed at the front of the Bureau of Immigration. Fox was apprehended by the Immigration a day ago for allegedly joining the anti-government protest. In April 18, groups of farmers rallied at the front of the National Food Authority headquarters for lack of permanent solution for the rice crisis. In April 19, a symbolic jeepney heading to the Supreme Court and carrying Robredo supporters were apprehended by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). In April 22, it was reported that Chinese builders were plotting to take-over the Rehabilitation of Marawi. In April 24, more than 600 military personnel were deployed by Duterte in Boracay, confusing the natives on the government's initial environmental wordings. In April 26, Boracay's 6-month 'rehabilitation' began. The entire island was officially closed to the public. On the same day, Duterte's trust ratings further fell to 65%. In April 29, Tuguegarao Archbishop Sergio Utleg was shot dead by unknown gunmen. Duterte claimed that the archbishop was killed because he had illicit affairs, to which the Catholic Church answered back denying such accusations. In April 30, president Duterte declared a 'permanent' ban on all workers going to Kuwait after abuse and murder cases surfaced, leading to conflicts between the two countries and the unemployment of thousands of overseas Filipino workers.

May

Ousted Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno addressing her supporters after her peers in the Supreme Court voted to oust her based on the solicitor general's unconstitutional quo warranto petition on May 11, 2018

In May 1, protests were held about the Executive Order on "endo" with Duterte's effigies. Duterte signed the executive order, supposedly "ending the contractualization", however, it was revealed that the executive order benefits only the employers, not the workers. In effect, contractualization remains legal and in full force despite the existence of the executive order, dismaying labor groups and causing a massive protest. In May 3, TIME included Duterte as one of today's "strongmen", or "tough-talking populists promising to protect “us” from “them”." The inclusion angered Duterte and was cheered by numerous international human rights organizations. In May 7, Duterte-ally and senator Cynthia Villar, whose son Mark Villar is the public works secretary of Duterte, admitted that she has business interests in Boracay as her family owns Boracay Sands (a Villar-owned Vista Land property), an environmental offender on the island. No cases were filed against Villar nor was she removed from her position as chair of the Senate committee on environment. On the same day, health workers marched to protest the low salary and contractualization issue in the Philippines. In May 8, tourism secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo resigned from her post after the Commission on Audit revealed she directed the placement of P60 million in tourism ads to Kilos Pronto, a blocktimer show on PTV-4, despite lack of a memorandum of agreement or contract. Kilos Pronto is produced and hosted by Teo's brothers Ben Tulfo and Erwin Tulfo, both are Duterte allies. Teo stressed that she 'did not know' that her own brothers were running the very specific television show she sent 60 million pesos to. The Tulfo brothers afterwards promised that they will return the 60 million pesos of government fund that they received from their sister. In May 10, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales announced to media that presidential son and former Davao city vice mayor Paolo Duterte is under probe for various complaints, including Paulo's inclusion in a Chinese drug syndicate, meddling at the customs agency, smuggling of P6.4 billion worth of “shabu” (crystal meth), unexplained wealth disproportionate to the declared lawful income, two criminal complaints for graft and perjury, and two administrative complaints seeking Paolo’s lifetime ban from public office. In May 11, the Supreme Court ousted its own Chief Justice, Maria Lourdes Sereno, a known critic of Duterte, through a quo warranto proceeding instead of the constitutionally-mandated impeachment proceeding. Sereno was ousted via an 8-6 vote. Of the eight justices who voted to oust her, six of them testified against Sereno weeks before the ouster plot succeeded. Sereno afterwards appealed for the decision of the court, invoking her right that the six justices who testified against her should inhibit from voting through traditional delicadeza, because if the judges are the testifiers themselves, conflict of interest and biases will be unavoidable. The eight judges (which includes the six testifiers) who voted to oust Sereno were Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin, Francis Jardeleza, Noel Tijam, Samuel Martires, Andres Reyes Jr., Alexander Gesmundo, and long-time Sereno nemesis Teresita de Castro. In contrast, the remaining six justices who voted to retain Sereno's position are Antonio Carpio, Presbitero Velasco Jr., Mariano del Castillo, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Marvic Leonen, and Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa. Sereno inhibited from the voting through traditional delicadeza, believing that she should not be allowed to vote as the issue involves her. Sereno supporters flocked at the Supreme Court In May 12, numerous students protested the ousting of Sereno. One of the students made a picture showing the Thanos version of Duterte. In May 14, it was revealed that the two Chinese companies, namely China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) and China Geo Engineering Corporation (CGC), who were poised to win a P17.2-billion contract to rehabilitate the former battle area in Marawi City were once blacklisted by the World Bank over corrupt practices in the Philippines. The two corrupt companies were personally tapped by the Duterte administration.

Duterte with Chinese president Xi Jinping, who promised Duterte last May 15 that China will 'not allow' Duterte to be ousted from the Philippine presidency.

In May 15, Philippine president Duterte announced that he will go to the Philippine Rise 'riding a jetski' in a bid to calm speculations against the government's policy towards China, however, his son and special adviser later went instead and rode a jetski in the area. Photos of the event were circulated by the government online. In May 15, Duterte said that he will not be ousted from office as he has the backing of the People's Republic of China, as stated by Xi jinping himself. On the same day, protesters, including activist priest Robert Reyes, displayed the coffin with the pictures of the eight justices, who were in favor in ousting Sereno, in front of the closed Supreme Court front gate. In May 16, it was revealed that Duterte's son and special adviser did not rode a jetski in the Rise, instead they rode it in Casiguran Bay of Casiguran, Aurora, a small body of water thousands of kilometers west from the Rise and enveloped by a landmass separating it from the Rise. The revelation sparked outrage due to the intentional lies crafted by the president and his allies. Opposition leaders called the jetski event as nothing but government 'publicity stunt'. On the same day, president Duterte ordered the lifting of what initially was a 'permanent' ban on workers going to Kuwait after a long stand-off between the two countries, which affected thousands of overseas Filipino workers. Additionally, Duterte made a speech, announcing that the next Chief Justice should 'not be a woman', sparking feminist outrage. In May 18, students protested the ousting of Sereno and other administration issues (from war on drugs to martial law), and distributed flyers, criticizing the Supreme Court vote on the quo warranto petition. In May 21, several groups gathered at numerous gas station sites in the country to protest the continuous increase of oil prices, citing the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN Law) as the main cause. In May 20, senators Risa Hontiveros and Franklin Drilon hit Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Cayetano and president Duterte for their silence on the presence of Chinese bombers in the West Philippines Sea. Secretary Cayetano fired back stating that the Philippines 'will not condemn' China's intrusions in Philippine territories, sparking further criticism. In May 21, controversial senator Tito Sotto, a Duterte ally, was elected as the new Senate president, vowing that the pro-LGBT SOGIE Equality Bill will not pass into law under his watch, despite majority of senators favoring the bill's passage. In May 22, following the controversial speech of Duterte about the next Chief Justice and the ouster of Sereno, a hashtag, #BabaeAko, become trending of social media. The online protest of #BabaeAko was part of the international #MeToo campaign which aimed to safeguard women's rights. In May 23, coinciding with the first anniversary of the Marawi crisis, several groups marched towards Mendiola and called for an end to martial law in Mindanao, which has terrorized huge expanses of land owned by indigenous Lumad peoples. In May 24, the government announced that the two blacklisted Chinese companies in the running for the Rehabilitation of Marawi were fine for Duterte, citing 'second chances', causing protests against the government's decision. On the same day, Duterte met further criticism after a public speech saying that "Women cannot stand threats, intimidation" and "I believe in women's competence, but not in all aspects". He finished his speech empowering the dogma of masculine supremacy. In May 25, the Chinese-led Bangon Marawi Consortium and the government failed to meet the deadline to present the final design plans for the rehabilitation of war-ravaged Marawi City. In May 27, Buenavista, Bohol mayor Ronald Lowell Tirol was shot dead at close range near a local cockpit arena. In May 28, senators Risa Hontiveros and Francis Pangilinan called for the removal of Solicitor-General Jose Calida after another scandal broke out, where it was revealed that Calida was awarded by Duterte P150 million in government contracts through his family's security agency. Calida fired back, maintaining that he has no intention to resign or be removed by anybody. In May 29, Amnesty International conferred the "Most Distinguished Human Rights Defender" award to imprisoned senator Leila de Lima, meeting criticism from Duterte. In May 30, it was revealed by the Bureau of Treasury that the outstanding debt of the country under Duterte has ballooned to stood at P6.88 trillion last April, partly due to Chinese loans. In May 31, the #BabaeAko (I am a Woman) movement was blasted by Duterte. The movement retaliated, stating that Duterte was 'intimidated by strong women', citing various women, such as imprisoned senator Leila de Lima and removed Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, who Duterte intentionally sacked or imprisoned to maintain his administration's ground. Additionally, the Financial Times reported that the export of the Philippines has continued its drastic drop for the fifth month in a row, while the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that the trade deficit of the country has widened to 47.6%, endangering further the country's local economies.

June

In June 1, it was revealed by the Commission on Audit that Solicitor-General Jose Calida received P7.46 million as 'excess allowances' in 2017, sparking protests. Calida afterwards announced that he has no intention to resign. On the same day, foreign affairs secretary Alan Cayetano stated that he filed '50-100 diplomatic protests' against China. Senator Risa Hontiveros afterwards challenged Cayetano to make those diplomatic protests public, if ever those filed protests do exist at all. Cayetano resisted from releasing any proof on the existence of his so-called '50-100 diplomatic protests', and blocked all interviews regarding the matter. Additionally, protests against the TRAIN Law were held at Commonwealth Ave., Quezon City.

In June 15, 2018, it was revealed that for every 3,000-peso worth of fish catch by Filipino fisherfolks in Zambales, China siphoned them in exchange for 'two bottles of mineral water' worth 20 pesos. The fishing area where the repeated incidents happened was within the Scarborough Shoal, which China aggressively took control of in 2012 via warships and nuclear threats.

In June 4, Duterte made headlines after kissing a married woman at a public stage in Seoul, South Korea. On the same day, on the first day of opening classes, teachers and students staged a protest against the TRAIN Law at Mendiola and also called for wage increase. They also presented their tarpaulins with the still picture of Duterte kissing a married Filipina woman, calling it "Halik ni Hudas" (English: "Kiss of Judas"). In June 10, Duterte's assistant, Christopher Go, confirmed that a Chinese plane was allowed by the government to 'land' and 'refuel' on an airport in Davao city, sparking nationalist outrage. On the same day, Nueva Ecija priest Father Richmond Nilo was shot dead by unknown gunmen. In June 11, Vice President Leni Robredo stated that China's presence in the West Philippine Sea is the 'most serious external threat since WWII'. On the same day, Archbishop Socrates Villegas and other leaders called on Duterte 'to stop the verbal persecution of the Catholic Church,' citing the last three priests killed since December 2017. International news agency Al Jazeera reported that the priests in the Philippines are slowly being killed off. In June 12, during the rainy Independence Day rites at the Rizal Monument, vice president Leni Robredo said that 'Filipinos' freedom faces threats' due to Chinese incursions and aggression. President Duterte, on the other hand, performed the Independence Day rites in Kawit, Cavite with the Chinese ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua, in mockery of the Philippine claims in the South China Sea. Some of the demonstrators interrupted Duterte's Independence Day speech by chanting "Hunyo a-dose, huwad na kalayaan! Pasista. Duterte, patalsikin!" (lit. "June twelve, fake freedom! Fascist. Oust Duterte!"). One of the demonstrators was arrested for “interrupting public order”. On the same day, protests, dubbed as "HINDIpendence Day" (literally means "Day of No Independence"), occurred in Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao with the burning of flags of the United States and China. Meanwhile, in Metro Manila, both supporters and anti-Duterte demonstrators gathered at Liwasang Bonifacio. Additionally, nationalist groups flocked at the Chinese Consulate office in Makati City to protest the presence of Chinese troops in the Philippine seas. In June 13, Duterte encouraged Boracay natives to 'sell' their lands 'to big firms'. On the same day, the government announced that it shall air Chinese shows in the state-run PTV network by August, as agreed upon by the governments of the Philippines and the People's Republic of China. Additionally, the "Oplan RODY" or "Rid the Streets of Drunkards and Youths" campaign was launched after Duterte ordered its initiation. The campaign targeted to arrest the youth, notable students and young adults without work or who wander outside their homes. In June 14, China's destruction of Scarborough Shoal's reefs surged to an extent which they became visible via Google Earth and Philippine satellites, as confirmed by the University of the Philippines Diliman. On the same day, presidential son Paolo Duterte announced that he will file libel charges against senator Antonio Trillanes, a known critic of his father. In June 15, it was revealed that for every 3,000 peso worth of fish catch by Filipino fisherfolks, China siphoned them in exchange for 'two bottles of mineral water' worth 20 pesos. The revelations led to public unrest against China and the Duterte-administered Philippine government. Filipino president Rodrigo Duterte fired back against his fellow Filipinos, including those from Zambales, saying that China's acts were 'fine' as they were 'only barter'. In June 19, the removal of Sereno was officially finalized by the Supreme Court, declaring the position of Chief Justice 'vacant'. In June 17, it was revealed that Erwin Tulfo and Ben Tulfo have not yet returned the 60 million in government funds that their sister gave them during her stint as tourism secretary. In June 18, an SWS survey saw the net satisfaction of the people towards Duterte has dwindled to 45%, his lowest mark as president. In Luzon, the net satisfaction is even lower at 33-34%. On June 19, foreign affairs secretary Alan Peter Cayetano announced that the Philippines 'co-controls' Panatag Shoal with China, gaining multiple criticism as 'co-control' in international law would mean an acknowledgment, to a certain extent, of China's claims on the shoal. On the same day, the Supreme Court, in a historic first, heard the oral arguments on same-sex marriage in the Philippines. Solicitor-General Jose Calida, backed by Duterte, argued that the petition was invalid. Pro-marriage equality protests surged in front of the Supreme Court with the question-theme, ‘Why do I have to leave my own country just to be legally together with someone that I love?’ In June 21, records showed that 7,291 youth were arrested by the police just 9 days after the "Oplan RODY" or "Rid the Streets of Drunkards and Youths" campaign was launched, sparking protests nationwide. The record of arrests released were only from Metro Manila, one of the 18 regions in the country. On the same day, several members from the Catholic Church protested the killings of the three priests (Marcelito Paez, Mark Ventura and Richmond Nilo). In June 22, Duterte withdrew his position and denied that he ordered the initiation of "Oplan RODY", however, he did not call for the stopping of the campaign. On the same day, while hundreds of priests, nuns, and laity held a march to call for the justice of the slain three priests, Duterte criticized God, stating, "Istupido talaga itong putang ina" (That son of a bitch is stupid), sparking nationwide outrage from some Christian sects unrepresented in the Duterte administration. Additionally, the government announced that it will take the drug war inside schools as well, where all children must undergo drug tests. In June 23, 38 nations, namely, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Macedonia, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom and the United States, condemned the Philippine Drug War and urged the Philippine government to stop the continued advancement of Filipino drug war deaths. The Duterte administration fired back stating that the Philippines 'does not need call from 38 states on human rights', adding that the country does not 'need to be told by foreigners'. In June 25, the government confirmed that it again allowed the landing of a Chinese plane on Philippine soil in Davao. On the same day, the Armed Forces of the Philippines 'accidentally' opened fire and killed 6 members of the Philippine National Police in Villareal, Samar, causing conflict between the military and the police force. The government branded the event as a 'misencounter'. Additionally, Duterte sparked controversy worldwide after he called God 'stupid', mocking all believers of God, especially those from Catholic and Christian sects. His statement was defended by his daughter, Sara Duterte, the incumbent mayor of Davao City. Duterte later He again stated that he would resign if someone can prove to him “God exists”. In June 26, an SWS survey noted that the Philippines was a 'crime-ridden' nation, and it was lamented upon by Duterte. In June 27, militant and religious groups protested against the "Oplan Tambay". In June 28, the Commission on Audit revealed that resigned tourism secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo and a former Tourism executive took millions worth of luxury goods from Duty Free stores in 2017 and charged them as well as consultancy fees to the funds intended to fuel the department's programs. In June 29, TIME listed the #BabaeAko (I am a Woman) movement in the Philippines as one of the world' 25 'most influential people' online, angering Duterte who is known as a 'misogynist' among Filipino feminist groups. On the same day, SpaceX brought the Philippines' Maya-1 cube satellite to the International Space Station. Additionally, students from UP Diliman and University of Santo Tomas, and other militant groups protested against the deadly policies of the Duterte administration, notably the Philippine Drug War and Mindanao martial law. In June 30, 25-year-old Genesis Argoncillo was arrested by the police for 'not wearing a shirt' under the Oplan RODY campaign of Duterte. Argoncillo was killed a few days later while in prison.

July

On the entrance of July, the inflation rate of the country increased to 5.7%. Additionally, the country's foreign exchange reserves dipped to a six-year low due to weakening peso. In July 2, Antonio Halili, the mayor of Tanauan, Batangas, was shot dead during a flag ceremony. Duterte insisted that Halili was involved in the drug trade, to which the Halili family called Duterte a liar. Less than 24 hours later, Ferdinand Bote, the mayor of General Tinio, Nueva Ecija, was also shot dead while inside his car. In July 4, the Consultative Committee (ConCom) tasked to review the Constitution unanimously approved the draft constitution which would shift the present government form into federalism, despite 64% of Filipinos opposed charter change (cha-cha), while 66% opposed a shift to federalism. Despite approving it, the ConCom decided to not make the document public, causing public outrage. The draft constitution 'allows the president to assume all the necessary powers of government – executive, legislative, and judiciary – to prevent the breakup' of the proposed federated republic, in effect a martial law regime, according to Consultative Committee chairman Reynato Puno. On the same day, the military stated that communist rebels were plotting to 'oust' Duterte. In July 5, the Philippines officially became known as the 'murder capital of Asia' due to the continued rise of murder cases throughout the country, partly due to the Philippine Drug War. TIME reported that Duterte was 'assassinating opponents under the cover of the drug war'. On the same day, the inflation rate of the country soared to 5.2%, its highest in 5 years. The enhanced inflation rate worsened the impacts of the government's new tax policy, increasing the price of all goods in the country. Additionally, the Commission on Audit found that Ilocos Norte province, governed by Imee Marcos, daughter of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, had millions worth of doubtful purchases and fabricated documents. The province is one of the biggest support bases of Duterte. Before July 5 ended, Duterte-ally and Senate president Tito Sotto confirmed that all articles of Pepsi Paloma have been removed from news site Inquirer through his personal request, causing outrage. Pepsi Paloma was a dancer who committed suicide after being allegedly gang raped by the incumbent Senate president and his peers in the 1980s. In July 6, members of Anakbayan gathered outside QCPD Station 4 to call for justice for Genesis 'Tisoy' Argoncillo, who was allegedly killed by the detainees following his arrest during the Oplan Tambay, by protest. On the same day, it was revealed by ConCom member Julio Teehankee that under the proposed federal constitution, Duterte may run again for president for two consecutive terms or an additional 8 years in office after 2022, paving the way for a possible 14 years in office. Duterte asked to make his term 'co-terminus' (equal) with the beginning of the draft constitution which is in 2019, in effect, mandating snap elections that may re-elect him to another term. On the same day, Sara Duterte, a would-be successor to her father, initiated the allegiance of her Hugpong ng Pagbabago party with the politicians governed by Imee Marcos in Ilocos Norte.

Protesters against the Duterte-sponsored federalism initiative, Philippine Drug War, Mindanao martial law, and TRAIN Law.

In July 7, former National Economic and Development Authority Director-General Solita Monsod lamented that Duterte's proposed constitution's transitional provisions are essentially the same with the provisions crafted by the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, adding, "There is a term for it: constitutional authoritarianism. This is what Mr. Duterte must have had in mind when he talked of a revolutionary government." On the same day, Trece Martires vice mayor Alex Lubigan was shot dead in front of a hospital. In July 9, the ConCom finally released the copy of the approved draft constitution due to public pressure. The draft constitution states that the incumbent President's term "shall not be extended", although it does not prohibit Duterte from undergoing a re-election during the transition period. In July 10, Reuters reported that the nickel ore export of the Philippines is steadily dropping by 17%. On the same day, Vice President Leni Robredo declared that she will 'lead, unite the opposition' against Duterte. Duterte reacted stating that the vice president is 'incompetent [as she is a woman]', while the many members of the opposition called Robredo the 'voice of reason, calm, sobriety'. The Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives immediately announced that they will back Robredo's leadership in the opposition. At the same time, another minor, 4-year old Skyler Abatayo of Cebu was killed through an 'anti-drug operation'. Duterte insisted that the child was killed by drug suspects, not his police force. A few hours after Robredo's announcement, Duterte met with Jesus Is Lord religious group leader Eddie Villanueva, father of senator and Duterte-ally Joel Villanueva. In July 11, Al Rashid Mohammad Ali, vice mayor of Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi, was gunned down in Zamboanga City. In July 12, during the second anniversary of the Philippines v. China case victory of the Philippines at The Hague tribunal, multiple posters in the nation's capital sprang with the statement, 'Welcome to the Philippines, Province of China', in reference to Duterte's past statements where he intended to make the Philippines a 'province of China'. The government's Metro Manila Development Authority, which is responsible for the CCTVs throughout the capital, did not release a statement on who was caught by the cameras as responsible for the posters. Duterte's spokesperson, Harry Roque, stated that it was Duterte's "enemies" who put up the posters, although evidences were not given by the government to the media despite cameras throughout the Metro were working at the time the posters were put up. Asked who is the supposed "enemies" of the government, Roque deferred from answering. In July 14, a Social Weather Stations survey found that 4 out of 5 Filipinos say it is wrong for the Duterte administration to do nothing about China's militarization of the West Philippine Sea. On the same day, Kaya Natin Youth event was held with the attendance of Vice President Leni Robredo, Senator Antonio Trillanes, Liberal Party executive Erin Tañada, former Solcitor General Florin Hilbay and former Rep. and CHR chair Etta Rosales.

Visayan protesters against Dutere's regime, featuring Duterte's demonic effigy.

In July 16, military presence in Surigao del Sur, a traditional Lumad indigenous territory, prompted an expansive Lumad evacuation due to fear from military bombings, leading to protests against Duterte's anti-Lumad campaigns. On the same day, Chinese research vessel Yuan Wang 3 docked in Davao City from the port of Jiangyin, sparking further outrage. In July 17, demonstrators from Southern Tagalog began a seven-day walk to Metro Manila in protest against the drug war and the surging prices of goods. In July 18, the Philippines, continuing with its arms deal with Russia, endangered its ties with the US, as the deal's continuation was in violation to US-imposed sanctions against Russia. On the same day, the auto sales of the country fell by 12.5%. In July 20, Public school teachers in the now-defunct Negros Island Region staged a rally, calling for salary increase. In July 22, Jeremias Numeral of Kilusan ng mga Magbubukid sa Pilipinas (KMP)announced opposition against Duterte, stating, "When Duterte was elected as president, we were hoping he would bring progress to our region. But the opposite happened. We now call him a traitor in Mindanao." Additionally, church leaders and opposition figures, such as Senators Trillanes, Risa Hontiveros, and Bam Aquino, gathered at the University of the Philippines in Diliman to oppose Charter change. In July 23, hours before the SONA began, different groups, coalitions, and organizations held a nationwide protests against Duterte. Minutes before the start of President Duterte's third State of the Nation Address, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez was ousted from office through an unconstitutional procedure which installed convicted plunderer, former president, and now congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as the new House Speaker, sparking nationwide outrage. It was later revealed that the successful ouster plot was masterminded by Duterte's own daughter, Davao city mayor Sara Duterte, and the daughter of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, Ilocos Norte governor Imee Marcos. The presidential spokesperson afterwards announced that president Duterte has no knowledge on the plot conceived by his daughter. On the same day, Barug Katungod, a group that monitors the human rights situation in Mindanao, announced that Duterte's Mindanao martial law has shifted focus from terrorism to tribes fighting for ancestral domain, which has caused the massive military killings and threats against the indigenous Lumad peoples. In July 25, it was reported that Lumad evacuees face harassment, and lack of water and food due to constant military attacks and threats. On the same day, international non-government organization The Global Witness announced that their research found that the Philippines is the "deadliest place in Asia for environmental defenders" since 2017.

Student protesters against newly-elected House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

In July 26, Lumad groups demanding the reopening of schools for their children brought their protest by holding the wake for one of their leaders right at the doorsteps of the Department of Education (DepEd) office. On the same day, Duterte appointed Samuel Martires, a key Marcos ally, as the country's new Ombudsman of the Philippines, replacing Conchita Carpio-Morales, who investigated Paolo Duterte's ties with a Chinese drug syndicate. In July 30, militant groups gathered at the front of the Philippine National Police headquarters to protest the arrest warrant against the four group leaders — Satur Ocampo, Liza Maza, Teddy Casiño and Rafael Mariano — who were charged for conspiring of killing people in 2003 and 2004, respectively. The four were later read not guilty after a few weeks.

August

Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former president who was convicted of corruption, takes oath as the new House Speaker after a successful and scandalous ouster plot against House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez a few minutes before the 2018 State of the Nation Address.

In August 1, pork barrel scandal mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles and her relatives, namely, Jo Christine Napoles, James Christopher Napoles, Jeane Catherine Napoles, Reynald Luy Lim, and Ana Marie Lim, were indicted for international money laundering, conspiracy, and bribery by the United States federal court. In August 2, a Forbes article stated that Duterte is "leading the wrong revolution. His policies divide and weaken the country in the eyes of international community, and have undermined confidence among investors." In August 3, Jeane Catherine Napoles, the indicted daughter of Janet Lim-Napoles, was revealed to have run away from the United States and has seek shelter in the Philippines to avoid American prosecution. The federal case in America against her family will not move until the cases against them in the Philippines are finished first, providing legal shelter in favor of the Lim-Napoles family. In August 7, PTV-4, the country's state television, published a story about kidnapped Filipinos in Libya using a misleading photos. The original photo used came from a Wikipedia article of the Type 054A frigate, Chinese utility vessels which first entered service in 2007. In the photo, the Chinese flag was 'edited' to look like the flag of the Philippines. After the revelation, the Duterte administration immediately 'apologized' to the Chinese government. On the same day, congressman Danilo Suarez was declared as the House minority leader despite Suarez voting for Gloria Arroyo as House Speaker, an act which should negate Suarez from being part of the minority. Nevertheless, Suarez maintained his position, effectively breaking House rules which caused major rifts within the House minority and House independents. In August 8, the diminishing Philippine peso again failed to lift Philippine exports as revealed by the Philippine Statistics Authority. On the same day, it was announced that Chinese president Xi Jinping will visit the Philippines before the year ends. In August 9, Lumad evacuees formally returned to their homes after days to months in evacuation camps. However, military presence in some areas have continued as Duterte never officially withdrew his statements to bomb Lumad schools. On the same day, Duterte congratulated Cambodian dictator Hun Sen on his re-election, despite numerous international organizations calling the Cambodian elections as marred with numerous irregularities. Additionally, Father Ranhilio Aquino, a Con-Com member, requested Duterte to fire Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia after the two told media that the Con-Com's draft federalism constitution will negatively impact the Philippine economy. In August 10, retired overseas Filipino worker Allan Rafael died under police custody after being detained for “breach of peace” and alleged possession of illegal drugs. The police claimed that Rafael died due to short of breath, however, his family claimed that he was beaten by the police while being stricken by cancer. Rafael's brother added that before being jailed, the police "forced" Rafael to "withdraw" money from a bank and later "forced" him to admit using drugs through beatings and slappings. On the same day, the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) all failed to stop the Philippine entrance of 1,000 kilos of shabu drugs worth 6.8 billion pesos, another signal on the failing spree of the Philippine Drug War. In August 13, after heavy floods and rain struck numerous high-density provinces and cities in Luzon, including the capital Manila, the government announced that president Duterte will 'monitor' the conditions from his base in Mindanao, instead of going to ravaged areas, sparking criticisms of "Nasaan ang pangulo kung kailan kailangan namin siya?" (Where is the president when we need him?). On the same day, a cybersecurity company reported that the Philippines was ninth in the world in terms of volume of online attacks during the second quarter, up from 44th a year earlier.

Senate inquiry on the 60-million corruption scandal of Duterte allies Wanda Tulfo Teo, Ben Tulfo and Erwin Tulfo.

In August 14, the Nikkei Asian Review reported that Duterte's federal Philippines dream raises 'fiscal nightmare' fears. Philippine shares fell again afterwards. On the same day, Wanda Tulfo Teo, Ben Tulfo, and Erwin Tulfo denied allegations that the P60-million DOT advertisement placement in a show hosted by the Tulfos was anomalous. The siblings noted a few months ago that they will give back the money they stole, only to withdraw their initial statements during a live Senate hearing, adding that both Ben Tulfo and Erwin Tulfo will now not return the P60-million fund that their sister Wanda Teo gave them during Teo's stint as tourism secretary, causing national outcry against the Tulfos who perpetuated the multi-million corruption scandal. In August 15, president Duterte said that China has no right to claim airspace above man-made islands, although adding that he does not want to "quarrel" or file diplomatic protests against China. In August 16, the Duterte administration announced that the president is willing to resign if the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos's son, Bongbong Marcos, replaces him as president, a move that would only be possible if Marcos wins in his electoral protest against incumbent vice president Leni Robredo. The camp of the vice president assured that Marcos will not win in the election protest. Duterte also noted that if ever he resigns and Robredo will be the president, he will support a junta to take over the presidency. On the same day, both the United Kingdom and Australia expressed their support that the Hague ruling on Philippines v. China case legally binds both the Philippines and China, a move that was unfortunately dismissed by Duterte for the appeasement of China. In August 17, Randall Schriver, United States assistant secretary of defense for Asian and Pacific security affairs, vowed that the US will be a 'good ally' to the Philippines if Beijing invades the country. On the same day, thousands of air travelers faced delays after a Chinese airliner of Xiamen Air skidded off the runway at the airport in the Philippine capital, disrupting more than 200 flights. Additionally, militants protested due to the enhancement of inflation in the country, partly due to the TRAIN Law.

In August 18, Vice President Leni Robredo protested Duterte’s remark that her hometown Naga, Camarines Sur "is a hotbed of shabu." In August 19, after reports on Duterte's failing health surfaced, the presidential palace quickly denied such allegations. A few days later, defeated vice presidential candidate Bongbong Marcos, who has an ongoing election protest against vice president Leni Robredo, announced that he is 'ready for the presidency' if ever Duterte dies in office, sparking nationwide criticism as Marcos is not even the vice president who would assume the presidency once the president is held incapable. On the same day, governor Imee Marcos conducted an online poll on who the people believed should be the real vice president of the Philippines. 71% of respondents were in favor of incumbent vice president Leni Robredo, while only 29% favored her brother Bongbong Marcos. The poll was deleted afterwards. In August 22, the Department of Health warned Filipinos of buying and eating 'galunggong' (scad fish) that the Duterte administration imported from China, as those fihes tested positive for formaline. Later, it was revealed that those fish being injected by formaline were fished by China within Philippine waters in the West Philippine Sea, sparking nationwide protests. On the same day, Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde attacked vice president Leni Robredo's statements, and told media that Naga is in the "top 5 in crime volume" in the country, backing up president Duterte tirades against Robredo's hometown. Albayalde also said that vice president Robredo's brother is the head of a crime syndicate in Naga. Robredo afterwards released a statement fact-checked by government proving that Naga is in fact, as a whole, not even within the top 10 nor the top 20 in the most crime-ridden cities in the Philippines. Additionally, she blasted Albayalde's accusations on her brother, who has been legally blind for more than a decade. When the media asked the Philippine National Police on why they lied, the police withdrew from answering back. In August 23, it was revealed that rice being imported by the Duterte administration through agriculture secretary Emmanuel Piñol were heavily infested with 'bukbuk' (weevils), sparking nationwide outrage and a Senate appeal. Seven days later, health secretary Paulyn Ubial announced it was 'safe' for the masses to eat weevil-infested rice, sparking further outrage. In August 24, Duterte promised to fast-track projects in the Philippines that are heavily funded by China, sparking criticism on China's debt-trap diplomacy and Duterte's carefree attitude on the matter, as the projects have extremely high interest rates. Economists branded Duterte's policy as a "hollow victory". On the evening of August 25, Teresita de Castro, who initiated the ouster against her nemesis former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, was appointed by Duterte as the country's new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, sparking nationwide outrage. The opposition branded her appointment as Duterte's "pabaon" (gift) as she was instrumental on the Sereno ouster plot. De Castro is also biggest supporter of Bongbong Marcos' election protest against incumbent vice president Leni Robredo. Her appointment has been questioned by many as De Castro only has 2 months left before she is forced to retire due to age, where a new chief justice must be appointed again by October 8, 2018. Another criticism over the appointment was De Castro's days of work, where she will serve legally as chief justice for only 45 days, however, 30 of those days will be counted as 'terminal leave' (for preparing of retirement documents), and 4 of those days are under weekends, effectively reducing her actual work days as chief justice to 11 days only. Afterwards, she will retire with an extra 1.8 million pesos due to the high position given to her before retirement. Her monthly allowance after retirement will also increase by 12,000 pesos. In August 28, activists and families of victims of the Philippine Drug War filed a complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC), a second petition accusing President Rodrigo Duterte of murder and crimes against humanity. In August 31, another Chinese ship docked in Davao City, supposedly to 'refuel' and 'tour'. On the same day, Duterte told media that the country is 'better off' with the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos than vice president Leni Robredo. Duterte also announced that he would like a Marcos to run the country again, referring to defeated vice presidential candidate Bongbong Marcos. Robredo retaliated hitting Duterte for 'glorifying a dictator'. Additionally, records were released where it turned out that president Duterte's hometown of Davao City had the highest incidence of rape crimes in the entire country. Duterte afterwards told media, 'as long as there are beautiful women, there will be rape', sparking protests from feminist groups. Later, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque told critics that Duterte was only 'joking' about rape, furthering the gap between the government and Filipino feminist groups. Before August 31 ended, president Duterte signed Proclamation No. 572, voiding the amnesty given to senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a major critic of Duterte, on grounds that Trillanes had not admitted guilt and completed a required formal application for amnesty. The proclamation directs the Department of Justice and the court martial to pursue criminal and administrative charges, and both the army and the police to "apprehend" Trillanes and bring him to jail.

September

Typhoon Mangkhut (locally known as Ompong) approaching the Philippines on 14th of September, 2018.

In September 1, Filipino military ship, BRP Gregorio del Pilar, grounded at Hasa Hasa Shoal (Half Moon Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea by accident. The government afterwards promised to remove the grounded ship after speaking with delegates from China. In September 3, president Duterte denied that the country has a shortage of local rice, however, the government imported 250,000 metric tons of rice three days later. The government noted that they will import at least 750,000 metric tons by end of year due to lack of rice. The additional importation further ballooned the prices of rice nationwide. On the same day, Finance chief Carlos Dominguez III stated that the country will most likely miss more economic targets. Additionally, youth groups protested against the continued extension of Martial Law in Mindanao. In September 4, the government stated that the 2007 rebellion case against Trillanes was just “suspended” and can be opened up again. Two courts were used by the government to pursue a jail order for Trillanes. However, documents released by Rep. Gary Alejano proved that the cases were already irrevocably “dismissed” since 2011. Additionally, Trillanes is no longer a soldier, and thus, cannot be persecuted through a martial court. The events later forced Duterte’s legal team, headed by Solicitor General Jose Calida, to change the nature of their case against Trillanes. On the same day, a protest occurred in Jerusalem against Duterte, who was scheduled to meet with Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, for a "weapons deal between the two countries", with their pictures showing Duterte holding a Galil assault rifle with the header "Stop the killings." In September 5, the Department of Defense, under the order of president Duterte, stated that senator Trillanes can be arrested even without a legally-binding warrant of arrest, sparking massive criticism. On the same day, mayor Mariano Blanco III of Ronda, Cebu was shot dead inside his office at the town hall. A police official said Blanco, who had been sleeping at his office for a while already, was shot by 4 unidentified men. Additionally, it was revealed that the inflation rate of the country increased to 6.4%, a nine-year high, causing costs of goods and fuels to rise exponentially. President Duterte blamed American president Donald Trump for the inflation increase. Senator Francis Pangilinan, however, pointed out that if the United States was to blame, then all countries in ASEAN should have been experiencing the same. Only the Philippines has a very high inflation rate in the entire region. On the same day, the Justice Department failed to obtain an arrest warrant from Makati City RTC Branch 148, where the coup d'état charge against Trillanes was filed. The military and police afterwards surrounded the Senate building, where Trillanes was working at. Various senators hit the military and police for ‘militarizing’ Senate premises. Opposition members of the House of Representatives and the Senate filed resolutions calling on their institutions to denounce the "baseless, unlawful, and improvident" revocation of an amnesty order. In September 6, Jordan and the Philippines announced their anti-terrorism deal, which included two Cobra attack helicopters that will be given by Jordan to the Philippines. On the same day, members of Tindig Pilipinas gathered outside the Supreme Court to show support to Sen. Antonio Trillanes, following the revocation of his amnesty. In September 7, the Justice Department filed a “very urgent” ex-parte motion for the issuance of a hold departure order and a warrant of arrest against Senator Antonio Trillanes IV at Makati RTC Branch 150. On the same day, the camp of Trillanes filed a motion for a special raffle to speed up proceedings at the Supreme Court (SC). The Trillanes camp requested for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the proclamation that voided the amnesty. In September 10, Judge Alameda of Makati City RTC Branch 150 set a hearing on the DOJ's request, instead of immediately issuing a warrant of arrest against Trillanes. In September 11, the Supreme Court denied Trillanes' request for a TRO, shifting the burden to two Makati RTCs that will hear the DOJ’s motions for a warrant of arrest. In September 12, the Philippines became part of a United Nations list of countries that retaliate against rights defenders. In September 13, it was confirmed that the Philippine economy continued to fall, while the country’s inflation rate continued to rise, alarming numerous investors. In September 15, Typhoon Mangkhut (locally known in the Philippines as Ompong) devastated the country’s northernmost regions, which constituted the majority of the nation’s vegetable and rice producing lands. The typhoon made landfall on Cagayan province, and was listed as the most powerful typhoon in the world for 2018. It affected more than 250,000 Filipinos. Australia, Japan, the United Nations World Food Programme, and the United States immediately sent international aid to typhoon-ravaged areas in the country. The aid provided by Australia alone amounted to 31 million pesos. In September 16, reports surfaced that a mine in Itogon, Benguet suffered from a landslide, burying numerous miners in the aftermath. President Duterte later mocked the people of Itogon, stating that such a landslide would not happen if only the people replaced their village priest, adding that it was ‘nature’s wrath’ against priests and the Catholic church.

Imelda Marcos was absolved from her crimes (32 cases) through a ruling initiated by Duterte-appointed Chief Justice Teresita de Castro. The ruling was made during the commemoration of the martial law imposed by her husband.

In September 17, Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, downplayed the recent inflation figures, mishmashing his data, and then blamed the media for such inflation rate. In September 19, president Duterte lashed at former Commission on Audit of the Philippines chief Heidi Mendoza, after Mendoza defended the state audit body from Duterte’s belittling of audit regulations. Duterte also ordered government agencies to not follow the rules and regulations of the Commission on Audit, endangering Philippine checks and balances. In September 20, a landslide which swallowed villages in Cebu caused government officials to finally call for a ‘review’ of mining activities in the country’s mountains. On the same day, it was discovered that numerous new textbooks being used in schools and approved by the Department of Education only listed the merits of the Marcos regime and facts after 1986, effectively glorifying the Marcos dictatorship. The discovery led to protests, culminating on September 21. In September 21, on the commemoration of the Marcos declaration of martial law in the Philippines, Imelda Marcos, the wife of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, was officially absolved from all 32 cases by the Supreme Court of the Philippines, headed by Chief Justice Teresita de Castro. On the same day, thousands of protestors against the Duterte administration and its allies rallied in key cities in the country. Additionally, vice president Leni Robredo denied Duterte’s allegations that there was a ‘taped conversation’ in which the opposition was allegedly conspiring to oust Duterte. The opposition challenged Duterte to release such taped conversation to media if such conversation really exists. In September 22, economists warned the Philippines of a possible ‘boom-bust economy’ similar to that of Ferdinand Marcos, where the country’s economy fell adversely at the end of his administration.