Advancing National Interests in the Global Arena: A Systematic Review on President Duterte’s Foreign Policies
Keywords:
Duterte, foreign policies, China, European Union, overseas Filipino workers, PhilippinesAbstract
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is one of the Philippines' most popular yet controversial presidents. His foreign policies received contrasting reactions from domestic and international sectors. The key goal of this systematic review is to explore President Duterte's foreign policies and how he manages to advance the interests of the Philippines in the global arena. From the initial 979 articles, 13 were finally selected after passing the rigorous evaluation guided by the review protocols. Five themes emerged after analyzing the articles concerning Duterte's foreign policies. These are care for Overseas Filipino Workers, pivot to China, non-reliance with the West, political strategy, and advancing national interests. Though he did not get much support from local and international critics, his dealings with China and Russia allowed the Philippines to increase alliances while maintaining good relations with long-time allies, such as the US and European Union. Duterte’s unpopular and sometimes controversial foreign policies challenge scholars for in-depth inquiry and discussion on existing international relations and political theories.
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