Philippines Leader Duterte: Just Call Me President

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has issued an order directing the Philippine people to address him simply as “president.”

Duterte’s executive order banned the use of honorifics for himself or his cabinet. Honorifics are titles or terms of respect.

Duterte approved the executive order on July 15. The order was issued to stop the use of terms such as “honorable” or “his excellency.” While Duterte will be called “president,” the order suggests the term “secretary" be used for the country’s ministers.

Duterte’s officials say the order is a step aimed to reinforce the president’s “simple” style.

Though he will formally be addressed as president, Duterte still prefers to be called "mayor," according to a statement from the president’s staff.

For more than two decades, Duterte was the mayor of southern Davao City. There, he became an admired public servant and crime-fighter.

Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said the executive order was intended to preserve Duterte’s “populist” style.

“He encourages less ceremonial communications,” Abella added.

The order will not surprise the millions of Filipinos who voted for Duterte. He became popular due to his down-to-earth style and clothing.

The new president took office three weeks ago. He will give his first State of the Nation address on Monday. The State of the Nation is an extraordinary affair more like a fashion show than a political speech.

However, the Duterte administration did make a change to the event. The budget has been reduced for this year’s State of the Nation address. This year’s event will have fewer guests and a business dress code.

I’m John Russell.

Reuters contributed to this VOA News story. Jim Dresbach adapted it for Learning English. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor.

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