Articulating populism in the Philippines: The rhetorical strategies of Joseph Estrada and Rodrigo Duterte

Abstract

The article compares the rhetorical strategies of two of the most popular post-martial law presidents in the Philippines, Joseph Estrada (1998–2001) and Rodrigo Duterte (2016–2022). Adopting Laclau's definition of populism and localizing De Cleen and Stavrakakis's analysis of socio-spatial dichotomies, I examine the political logic that guided the consolidation of the people and the formation of antagonistic frontiers during the Estrada and Duterte presidencies. I identify the nodal points in their articulation of sympathy, compassion, elite opposition, political will, and belongingness, and plot them on a down/up and in/out axes. In uncovering the operation of populist logic in their political speeches, the article finds that leveraging people's frustrations and unsatisfied demands reinforced Estrada's and Duterte's ability to mobilize support and project themselves as the people's protector and champion. Through an in-depth interrogation of their populist articulation, the article contributes to a more nuanced understanding of populism's durability and enduring appeal.