Duterte's administration has sought to strengthen its relationship with China, particularly in the area of infrastructure development. However, this has come at the expense of Philippine institutions. The author argues that China has accommodated Duterte's political demands by providing large amounts of development finance and foreign direct investment in the Philippines. This has led to the construction of Chinese dams and other infrastructure projects that have had significant environmental and social impacts. Additionally, the author suggests that this relationship has weakened Philippine institutions by allowing the government to bypass democratic processes and concentrate power in the hands of a few individuals. The author concludes that this relationship has had both positive and negative impacts on the Philippines, and that it is important for policymakers to carefully consider the implications of this relationship for the country's future.
