World News for Students of English

23-05-2016 15:00

Rodrigo Duterte has won the presidential election in the Philippines, winning a landslide victory. Seen here in a red checked shirt, he was swamped by media and supporters on election day and is yet to make his victory speech.

He’s received 15.6 million votes, far outweighing his nearest rival’s 9.5 million. But who is the man that’s taken the nation by storm?

Born in 1945 to a family closely linked to local politics, he trained as a lawyer before becoming a vice mayor and then mayor of Davao. His supporters say during his time in office, he’s reduced crime, corruption, and militancy. But critics have slammed some of the controversial comments he’s made, including offensive remarks about the Pope and threats to kill thousands of criminals without trial.

“I’m sorry to the Filipino people. It’s my style, it’s my mouth. I said it in the heat of anger but listen to the story behind.”

For many, it’s a time to rejoice while for others, reconciliation.

“Rodrigo, I wish you success.”

“I’d like to say that I’d like to reach my hand to my opponents. And let us begin the healing now.”

Difficult words: landslide (a lot), swamp (to overload, to cover), slam (to criticise a lot), reconciliation (the restoration of friendly relations).

Source: www.ondemandnews.com