Commentary
Upper middle-income, Lower-end reality
July 6, 2026
The UMIC overhype shows how the government’s presentation of the economy gives disproportionate emphasis to a favorable statistical reclassification while giving comparatively little attention to the country’s persistent structural weaknesses.
PH is upper middle-income, Filipinos aren’t
July 5, 2026
The World Bank’s UMIC label should not be mistaken for proof that the country has achieved genuine development.
On ratings outlook downgrades: People matter more
April 23, 2026
COMMENTARY
It is never too late to take steps to manage the oil shock in a way that is equitable, enhances growth, and is structurally transformative.
EDSA is Every Day, One Battle After Another
February 24, 2026
COMMENTARY
Forty years is a long time—long enough to reshape memory. Yet there is no doubting the enduring relevance of EDSA.
Weak Leadership, Worsening Economy, Rising Stakes
January 12, 2026
FEATURES
2026 could be the year Filipinos turn frustration into action and reshape the political landscape.
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.
The Anatomy of Corruption
September 20, 2025
The pork barrel system has become the most efficient way for politicians to gain control of public funds.
“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.
