Panelo gives Duterte excellent rating for leadership

Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo has given President Duterte an "excellent" rating for his leadership skills, particularly in his decisive actions during crises and his adherence to campaign promises.

Panelo highlighted the country's economic growth prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, despite facing challenges like the Taal Volcano eruption and the Marawi siege.

The administration has also made progress in fighting illegal drugs and reducing poverty, with poverty incidence dropping significantly.

Efforts to promote economic growth and attract foreign investments have also been a priority, with the Board of Investments exceeding its target in 2019.

Despite the economic contraction caused by COVID-19 lockdowns, Panelo expressed confidence in the country's recovery, attributing it to the resilience of the Filipino people and the President's prudent fiscal management.

The government's recovery plan includes accelerating the "Build, Build, Build" program, offering business-friendly incentives, and promoting local manufacturing to create jobs.

President Duterte remains popular among Filipinos, with high approval and trust ratings recorded in December of the previous year.