The Philippines will be embarking on a massive, radical change under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte is seen to do everything within his powers (and even those of the legislative and judiciary departments) to make things happen and to deliver to the letter all that he promised in his campaigns. That is under normal times or sans the benefit of Martial Law or military power.

Can you imagine what it would be like if we were under Martial Law Duterte style? One political analyst has even opined that Pres. Duterte is more powerful than former President Marcos was during his martial law regime. Here’s why: Pres. Marcos then was able to do what he did because he had the whole Philippines placed under the control of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Curfews were imposed; civil laws, civil rights and the writ of habeas corpus were suspended. Military law or justice was applied to civilians; violators were subjected to military tribunals.

But President Duterte intends to do massive, radical changes to Philippine society to accomplish his targets EVEN WITHOUT Martial Law. And he committed to do as he said, Duterte is firm with his declarations. The only way to do that is to use all powers available to him as the President of the Philippines—the same powers available to the presidents before him. Yet, why the drug problems grew to a tremendously uncontrollable degree during past administrations is everybody’s question.

Early on, the Filipino nation is audience to his various pronouncements, declarations and plans. His ways are unconventional or non-traditional. For instance, the way he and his PNP Chief plan to solve the drug problems does not get the nod of the Catholic Church, the human rights organizations, the media, pro-life groups, etc. Weighty and serious exchange of words between him or his camp and these groups are a common daily news item and topic in talk shows. But it seems Pres. Duterte is not at all bothered by the opinions (to say the least) of these groups. He is more bent on doing what he has to do and to fulfill what he promised to those who voted for him.

The tasks are overwhelmingly enormous considering that Pres. Duterte has given himself and his men only six months to deliver his promises. So, to my fellow Filipinos, let’s just wait and see. Good luck to the Filipino nation. God bless the Philippines!