Philippine E-Journals

Epitome of Political Leadership in Rodrigo R. Duterte of Davao City, Philippines

Mona L. Laya | Jason N. Marquez

 

Abstract:

This descriptive study aims to identify the leadership skills of Rodrigo R. Duterte to gain insights as to why he has become the undisputed political leader of Davao City. Making use of snowball and opportunistic sampling techniques, the investigation has established through qualitative analysis of triangulated data that Duterte’s leadership focuses on the maintenance of peace and order. As a leader, Mr. Duterte uses a combination of different leadership skills characterized by firmness in decisions, taking responsibility for all actions made and the ability to accomplish the desired outcomes. He is a transactional leader with charisma to the masses. He actively monitors the work performed by subordinates and executes corrective actions if deviations from expected standards occur. He is an entrepreneurial leader, a risk taker, and a negotiator. His autocracy fits the level of maturity of the Dabawenyos. He is voted primarily for his leadership skills in maintaining peace and order while the various programs he has implemented are considered as additional accomplishments to his brand of leadership.