摘要
While running for President of the Philippines and even after being elected, Rodrigo Duterte said he intended to adjust the Philippine's foreign policies, especially the South China Sea policy pursued under President Benigno Aquino III. But there is inconsistency or contradiction between his remarks. Duterte's remarks during the campaign featured his personal style, and also served to garner voters' attention and support. The adjustment of the Philippines' South China Sea policy under Duterte is expected to be based on Aquino's political legacy; subject to the struggle and equilibrium among domestic interest groups, and coordinated with the overall China policy of the United States.
Duterte achieved an overwhelming victory in the Philippines' presidential election. The world is closely watching whether Duterte, who has been widely labeled "the Philippines' Donald Trump," will overturn his predecessor's political legacy, and adjust his country's policy toward China, especially its South China Sea policy.