“Susmaryosep” - A Filipino Expletive from President Duterte

Philippine President Duterte claimed that the American CIA is planning to kill him in an address to Filipino nationals in Vietnam. In his words, "They say [that] the CIA is planning to kill me. Susmaryosep."

"Susmaryosep" is a Filipino expletive, normally said in frustration, anger, or disbelief. It is a combination of "Jesus," "Mary," and "Joseph," three important figures in the Christian religion. The prevalence of the expletive would be an interesting study, as it highlights the Catholic and Western influence on modern Filipino society.

Duterte then commented on his position on the tribunal ruling of the South China / West Philippine Sea, saying that he will assert the tribunal's decision in favor of the Philippines but that he is not ready to send his country into war.

The article is an interesting look into the opinions of a very controversial figure in the Philippines for his policy on the country's war on drugs. Generally, the article is neutral or slightly favorable to the President, even including a small joke the President said at the end of the article. It would be interesting to compare Western coverage of the Philippine president to actual Philippine news.