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.
