‘We Will Shoot You in The Vagina’: Phallocentric Populism and Women in Time of Rodrigo Duterte

Abstract

Abstract
This article analyzes former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte’s phallocentric leadership by exploring the connection between his populism, misogyny, and sexism. Duterte, known for his regional background and street-style rhetoric, positioned himself as an outsider to the political elite, which resonated with the Filipino masses. His presidency both worsened existing systems and challenged traditional Filipino values and beliefs. A self-professed womanizer, Duterte often flaunted his sexist and misogynistic views, with his own phallus as a symbol of his dominance. This tactic silenced critics, both male and female, and reinforced gender inequality. His hypermasculinity became his political tool. This study uses critical discourse analysis to examine Duterte’s misogynistic statements and discusses the phallus from feminist perspectives. Just as Duterte is vocal about his penis, it is essential for us to engage in a theoretical discourse about what it really embodies.
Keywords: Philippines, Duterte, Phallocentric, Populism, Feminism