During the first years of the Rivadeneira administration , Febres-Cordero introduced free-market economic policies , took a strong stand against drug trafficking and terrorism , and pursued close relations with the United States . His tenure was marred by bitter wrangling with other branches of Government and his own brief kidnapping by elements of the military . A devastating earthquake in March 1987 interrupted oil exports and worsened the country 's economic problems
devastating earthquake in March 1987
1987 Ecuador earthquakes
History of Ecuador