I see a lot of negative press about Duterte in the western media. Talking to Filipino friends, I have quite the opposite impression that mirrors your sentiments

I see a lot of negative press about Duterte in the western media. Talking to Filipino friends, I have quite the opposite impression that mirrors your sentiments - that people are actually hopeful, a refreshing change after decades of corruption. It also appears that Duterte favors a more pragmatic stance on the Spratlys/South China sea disputes rather than toeing the western line which in the long term is better for the region. You do not want to antagonize China, despite the assurances of USA that they have your back (only as long as realpolitik affords it). Something that the average foreigner fails to comprehend.