Sonny Africa

Sonny Africa is the executive director of IBON Foundation.

US imperial decline and escalation

October 24, 2025

The second Trump presidency deepens rather than resolves the crises of US imperialism, sharpening contradictions both at home and abroad.

Corruption reveal: Time to name names in the House of Representatives

October 10, 2025

An analysis of flood control projects on the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website indicates that anywhere from around 100 to 230 HOR lawmakers may be involved in suspicious flood control projects.

Another misfiring LEDAC agenda

October 3, 2025

The LEDAC list of priority bills for the 20th Congress, much like those in past administrations, are strikingly unsuited to the country’s structural ills.

Marcos is no anti-corruption hero

September 21, 2025

It doesn’t take much squinting to look beyond the theatrics and inter-parliamentary finger-pointing to see who ultimately decides about pork barrel.

“Sumbong” isn’t enough against corruption

September 5, 2025

COMMENTARY

The Marcos Jr administration is projecting an image of cracking down on corruption—but it takes a mass movement to eliminate it. Public outrage is a good place to start.

2026 Budget: Austerity for the Poor, Largesse for the Rich

August 14, 2025

The president’s 2026 budget is still crafted for the super-rich and powerful, not the people.

Marcos Jr’s rice populism: Short-term optics, long-term hunger

August 7, 2025

The worsening reliance on imports to contain increases in domestic rice prices is a problem that will persist if the government keeps scrimping on support for rice producers.

Impeachment supports economic development

July 16, 2025

The impeachment trial of VP Sara and holding her accountable for any misuse of confidential funds, bribery and corruption, and threatening violence against other public officials is a pivotal moment with huge implications for economic development.

Trump tariffs: Smaller isn’t always better

July 16, 2025

The Philippines need not passively submit to US-centric trade norms or the demands of the Trump administration.