Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Rodrigo Duterte’s speech at the proclamation rally in Tondo on Tuesday (February 9) tackled three main points of his platform — ending crime, illegal drugs and corruption.
The presidential candidate talked about doubling the salaries of policemen and military personnel to help keep these men in uniform honest and push them to do their jobs effectively.
Related: Duterte-Cayetano campaign off to a quick start in Tondo
Duterte also presented programs for small and medium enterprises (SME) and agriculture.
Under his leadership, he said cooperatives will offer small loans for aspiring business owners.
The Davao City mayor also assured farmers better access to credit and vowed to put up food terminals near agricultural lands.
Related: Duterte promises local farmers free irrigation
Duterte to continue admin’s CCT program
Duterte was clear — he’s running because he’s angry at the administration which he said is not for the poor.
But it was a different Duterte six years ago.
During the 2010 elections, he backed the candidacy of President Benigno Aquino III and his running mate Manuel “Mar” Roxas II.
He also slammed how laws are not being followed.
If there’s anything from the administration he will continue, he said it’s the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program.
Promise to end crime, corruption, illegal drugs in 3-6 months
Meanwhile, Duterte’s running mate, Alan Peter Cayetano, talked about fighting corruption.
Amid all these, it was the cursing and controversial statements like killing people that whipped up the crowd.
When Duterte cursed and shared stories about ordering people killed, the crowd laughed.
The mayor told his supporters that if they can’t take his antics they’re free to support other candidates, but he was also quick to say that when he curses, he does it for the people who suffer.
Related: Duterte to go all-out in presidential campaign
Duterte stressed his promise to end crime, illegal drugs and corruption in 3 to 6 months. To his disbelievers, he dared them to try him.
Duterte also took the opportunity to introduce some senatorial candidates he’s supporting.
Among them are former Quezon City Rep. Dante Liban, businessman Ding Diaz, whistleblower Sandra Cam, former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency chief Dionisio Santiago, former Interior secretary Rafael Alunan and Atty. Levi Baligod.
