Ferdinand E. Marcos (1965-1986)
Marcos was also known for his infrastructure projects, many do not know that he is responsible for building much of the government bureaucracy and filling it with good people, who have made many agencies very stable and effective. Many government employees were able to take post-graduate studies, which were beneficial to the count
Corazon C. Aquino (1986-1992)
The abolition of martial law also meant bringing back several freedoms that were not present during Martial Law – a leadership style that empowers versus controls. President Cory was also responsible for empowering women. Did you know that before 1987, a married woman needed her husband’s consent before she could open her own bank account? With a stroke of a pen, Aquino drastically changed the civil code. Hence, women were no longer second class citizens.
Fidel V. Ramos (1992-1998)
Ramos was also able to rally the nation under his vision of Philippines 2000, his goal of making the Philippines a newly-industrialized country by the end of the 20th century.
Joseph E. Estrada (1998-2001)
Empathizing with the plight of the masses has been his gift. His ability to connect with people made him one of the most popular presidents of the republic, despite the many controversies that have been hurled against him.
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2001-2010)
While the popularity and trust ratings had been an area for improvement for the daughter of another Philippine president, Diosdado Macapagal, PGMA was known to be a very hands-on leader. The indicator: she was abreast even with small-town road and irrigation projects. She traveled extensively across the country to either supervise their groundbreaking or lead the inauguration of such projects.
Benigno S. Aquino III (2010-2016)
President Noynoy prided in an administration that is free from corruption as much as possible. He has also fought against the abuse of privileges of many leaders and public officials who would use their positions for personal gain, as exemplified by his no “wang-wang” principle or policy.
Rodrigo R. Duterte (2016 – present)
While the administration’s campaign against illegal drugs has been controversial, from a leadership point-of-view, his determination shows clarity and commitment to his purpose and vision. He has promised, “Change is coming.”
