2016 Philippine Presidential Election: A Climactic Showdown Between Legacy and Change

The 2016 Philippine presidential election was a political earthquake, shaking the foundations of the country’s established order and ushering in an era of dramatic change under the leadership of Rodrigo Duterte. The campaign saw a unique convergence of personalities, ideologies, and anxieties that reflected the complex socio-political landscape of the Philippines.

One figure who emerged from this maelstrom was a lawyer from Davao City named Lawrence “Larry” Henares. Henares, known for his staunch advocacy for social justice and human rights, decided to throw his hat into the ring as an independent candidate. His platform focused on addressing inequality, corruption, and the need for a more inclusive society.

While Henares’s candidacy garnered attention from segments of the population disillusioned with the traditional political establishment, he ultimately faced an uphill battle against the two frontrunners: Rodrigo Duterte, the controversial mayor of Davao City known for his hardline stance on crime and drugs; and Mar Roxas, the Liberal Party candidate and former Interior Secretary, seen as the continuation of the outgoing Aquino administration.

The election campaign was fiercely contested, marked by fiery rhetoric, mudslinging, and a proliferation of fake news circulating online. Duterte’s populist message resonated with voters weary of corruption and yearning for decisive leadership. His promises to eradicate crime and drug abuse, coupled with his unconventional and often abrasive style, captivated a large swathe of the electorate.

Henares, on the other hand, struggled to gain traction against the two heavyweights. While his message of social justice and inclusivity resonated with certain segments of society, his lack of name recognition and limited campaign resources hindered his ability to reach a wider audience.

The election results were a landslide victory for Rodrigo Duterte, who secured over 16 million votes, more than double the votes garnered by Mar Roxas. Henares, despite running a commendable campaign, finished a distant third with less than 1% of the total vote.

Though he did not secure the presidency, Larry Henares’s candidacy represented an important voice in the 2016 Philippine election. His commitment to social justice and his willingness to challenge the status quo provided an alternative vision for the future of the Philippines.

His candidacy also highlighted the growing dissatisfaction with traditional politics and the yearning for a more responsive and accountable government. The emergence of independent candidates like Henares reflected a desire for fresh ideas and a break from the entrenched political dynasties that have long dominated Philippine politics.

The Impact of Duterte’s Presidency: A Mixed Legacy

Rodrigo Duterte’s presidency was marked by both significant achievements and controversial policies. His administration spearheaded ambitious infrastructure projects, such as the “Build, Build, Build” program, which aimed to modernize the country’s transportation networks and boost economic growth.

Duterte also made progress in tackling corruption, with his administration securing convictions of high-profile officials involved in graft. However, his presidency was also marred by controversies, particularly his relentless war on drugs. The campaign, characterized by extrajudicial killings and a disregard for due process, drew widespread condemnation from human rights organizations both domestically and internationally.

The impact of Duterte’s presidency continues to be debated. While some credit him with bringing much-needed change and progress to the Philippines, others criticize his authoritarian tendencies and the erosion of democratic institutions under his leadership.

Ultimately, Larry Henares’s participation in the 2016 Philippine presidential election serves as a reminder of the importance of citizen engagement and the role of alternative voices in shaping the political landscape. His candidacy, though unsuccessful, embodied the ideals of social justice and inclusivity, values that remain crucial to the ongoing pursuit of a more equitable and just society in the Philippines.

Larry Henares | Independent | 98,486 |