The Diplomat | Author
Mong Palatino
Mong Palatino served for two terms in the House of Representatives in the Philippines representing the youth sector.
He is a regular blogger and Global Voices regional editor for Southeast Asia and Oceania.
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August 26, 2022
A Look at Philippine President Marcos’ ‘Unity Budget’ for 2023
By Mong Palatino
The administration claims that the $94 billion budget will help propel the country out of its COVID-19-induced slump.
August 15, 2022
Philippine Senator Tackles Long-Standing Sabah Claim
By Mong Palatino
A recent French court ruling has pushed the territorial dispute back onto the country's political agenda.
August 08, 2022
What Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Can Learn from Fidel Ramos
By Mong Palatino
The late president's political legacy offers a blueprint for what the Marcos administration should do – and what it should avoid.
July 29, 2022
The First 30 Days of the Marcos Presidency
By Mong Palatino
If the past month is anything to go by, the new administration is poised to carry on the legacy of Rodrigo Duterte.
July 14, 2022
Will the Marcos Government Uphold Media Freedom?
By Mong Palatino
Judging from the recent election campaign and the new president's first two weeks in office, the signs are not good.
June 28, 2022
Arrests and Censorship Mark Rodrigo Duterte’s Final Month in Power
By Mong Palatino
The president has solidified his reputation as a leader who enabled the rapid deterioration of human rights in the Philippines.
June 08, 2022
The Options for Duterte’s Post-Presidency
By Mong Palatino
Rodrigo Duterte has pledged to retire to his home in Davao City, Mindanao. But don't rule out another political chapter.
May 23, 2022
Political Dynasties Dominate Philippines Election — Again
By Mong Palatino
The return to power of the Marcos clan hints at deeper problems with the country's democracy.
May 11, 2022
No Honeymoon for the Marcos Presidency?
By Mong Palatino
Despite his platform of national "unity," Ferdinand Jr.'s presidency will likely further polarize an already divided society.
April 26, 2022
Why Did Duterte Veto the Philippine SIM Card Registration Act?
By Mong Palatino
The bill was criticized by civil liberties groups and citizens. But President Rodrigo Duterte is hardly known for his emphasis on freedoms.
April 04, 2022
How Long Will Rodrigo Duterte Remain Neutral in the Philippine Election?
By Mong Palatino
So far the Philippine leader has refrained from anointing a successor. But he could just be waiting for the right moment.
March 21, 2022
Introducing the Colors of the Philippine Election
By Mong Palatino
As campaigning heats up, Leni Robredo's "pink wave" is facing off against the red-green tandem of the Marcos-Duterte ticket.