Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent declaration that the Philippines “deserves better” in terms of leadership is a rare moment of self-awareness. Coming from someone whose approval ratings have plummeted faster than a jeepney with no brakes, one might wonder if she’s finally seen the light—or just reading the room. 

As the nation’s GNP rises and unemployment drops, it seems the country is thriving, despite—or perhaps because of—leadership not primarily associated with the Duterte name. 

Could it be that the Filipino people, tired of the tough talk and no substance, are signaling their preference for a different style of governance? 

It’s almost poetic that while Duterte’s popularity nosedives, President Bongbong Marcos is on the ascent. The numbers don’t lie, VP Sara. Indeed, the Philippines does deserve better—starting with a leadership that isn’t clinging to nostalgia for a time when iron fists were mistaken for progress.