Duterte’s Leadership: Stories from His Cabinet During his six years in office, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte earned the trust and respect of his Cabinet by leading with a mix of decisive action, trust in his team, and compassion for the people. Trust Without Micromanagement Martin Andanar, former head of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, recalls being told by Duterte to lead without interference. This freedom allowed the team to launch major projects like the Freedom of Information initiative, regional media hubs, and other communication reforms. A Commander Who Cared for Soldiers Former Interior Secretary Eduardo Año remembers Duterte as both strict and caring toward the armed forces. He fulfilled promises to double their salaries, improve health benefits, and even predicted the Marawi siege months before it happened—allowing a rapid and organized response. Zero Tolerance for Corruption Sid Lapeña, who served as Customs Commissioner and TESDA chief, exceeded long-missed revenue targets, built new skills training centers nationwide, and introduced systems to make scholarship programs more transparent. Quick Decisions in a Crisis When COVID-19 hit, Duterte acted fast. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III says the president’s push for universal healthcare and the Malasakit Centers made it easier for millions to access medical care, even during the pandemic. Peace Through Development National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. credits Duterte’s whole-of-nation approach for reducing communist insurgencies. The Barangay Development Program brought roads, schools, and livelihood projects to former conflict zones. Straightforward Leadership For Duterte, simple instructions often led to big results. When Vince Dizon proposed the Clark International Airport expansion, Duterte only asked: “When will you start? When will you finish?” The project was completed on time despite the pandemic. Humble but Firm Cabinet members like Ramon Lopez describe Duterte as a humble leader who lived simply, refused special favors for friends or family, and listened carefully to honest reports over flashy presentations.