- Would rather listen to drivers and farmers
By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Duterte hits back at what he described as “self-proclaimed political analysts,” saying their views have become increasingly detached from the realities faced by ordinary citizens.
In a statement posted on his social media, Duterte said ordinary Filipinos—not political analysts—will ultimately determine the outcome of the 2028 elections, arguing that the public’s lived experiences carry more weight than political commentary.
“To be honest, I am more interested in listening to a dock worker, a tricycle driver, a farmer, or an ordinary laborer than to pundits who spend the entire day in air-conditioned studios explaining what they claim the public is feeling,” he said.
Duterte said ordinary Filipinos based their political views on their daily experiences under different administrations, including changes in the prices of rice, electricity, and fuel, as well as employment opportunities and peace and order.
The Davao lawmaker described these lived experiences as the “true political science of the masses,” saying they provide a more accurate measure of public sentiment than television appearances or social media commentary.
Duterte also questioned the neutrality of some political analysts, claiming that their political leanings are already evident even before they present their analyses or publicly share their views.
While acknowledging that everyone is entitled to an opinion, he said it is misleading for commentators to portray themselves as impartial if their political sympathies are already apparent to the public.
Duterte maintained that political analysts would not determine the country’s next leaders, stressing that the decision in the 2028 elections would ultimately rest with ordinary Filipinos at the polls.
He added that, based on his experience, he trusts the sentiments of working Filipinos more than those of analysts, whom he suggested are disconnected from the realities on the ground.
Duterte also accused the political opposition and progressive groups of ignoring alleged irregularities in flood control projects and other government issues to advance their political goals for the 2028 elections.
“Give it a rest. You are acting like you are always correct,” Duterte said.
