There is a familiar rhythm in every presidency. The first half is usually defined by promises, reforms, and political momentum. The second half is something else entirely. It is when events—often beyond the control of any leader—begin to test the strength of one’s administration. History shows this pattern clearly. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo faced the global financial meltdown in the middle of her term. Rodrigo Duterte encountered the once-in-a-century Covid-19 pandemic. Even earlier presidents had to navigate Asian financial crises, oil shocks, or political upheavals that arrived uninvited. Today, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is facing his own version of that test. […]... Keep on reading: The second-half test