The decision by Rodrigo Duterte, the gun-toting mayor of Davao City, to enter the Philippine presidential sweepstakes at virtually the last minute complicates the always circus-like politics that have characterized the country for decades. The national elections, set for July 1, 2016, are of more than average importance to the Philippines because the country has had a relatively successful six years under President Benigno S. Aquino III, with a substantial cleanup in corruption although a lot remains to be done. The country has risen from a score of 105th of 175 countries in 2012 to 85th in the 2014 poll by Transparency International. After the 12 years between former Presidents Joseph Estrada and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, there is hope that the reform movement can continue with the new president next year.