Country
Philippines
Former US Bases in the Philippines Prompt Mixed Feelings
By Sebastian Strangio
Nearly three decades on from the closure of the Subic Bay naval base, the Philippines’ relationship with the United States remains complicated.
Southeast Asian Parliamentarians Face Chilly Political Climate
By Sebastian Strangio
The region’s authoritarian turn has made life difficult for lawmakers opposing entrenched political interests.
Why Are Filipinos Celebrating a Former Dictator?
By Sebastian Strangio
The rehabilitation of Ferdinand Marcos is a sign of the public's continuing discontent with the status quo.
Controversial China Projects Reveal Philippine Rifts
By Sebastian Strangio
Two more recent deals highlight the contradictions that have resulted from the Duterte administration's "pivot to China."
Filipino Health Workers Protest Overseas Work Restrictions
By Nick Aspinwall
A nurses’ group has called for the government to lift a deployment ban imposed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the Philippines, a Marine’s Pardon Stirs Anger Over US Privilege
By Sebastian Strangio
Both the pardon, and the reactions it has engendered, encapsulate the country's conflicted attitude toward its former colonial master.
Duterte Eyes Former Investigation Chief to Lead Embattled Health Insurance Agency
By Nick Aspinwall
Dante Gierran has been nominated to lead PhilHealth, under fire for numerous corruption allegations, despite having no experience in the public health sector.
Does the Philippines Need a Revolution for the Status Quo?
By Michael Beltran
A group of Duterte supporters has called for a “revolutionary government” that would arm the president with additional powers. What does that even mean?
Duterte’s Rejection of Calls for ‘Revolutionary Government’ Met With Doubt in the Philippines
By Nick Aspinwall
The president said he was unfamiliar with a group calling to install him as head of a new government, despite video showing him at the group’s convention in 2018.
COVID-19 and Terrorism in the Southern Philippines: More Trouble Ahead
By Jasminder Singh and Muhammad Haziq Jani
The Jolo city bombing is just the latest evidence that the Philippines needs a new approach to its terrorism problem.
Are Schools in the Philippines Ready to Open in a Pandemic?
By Mong Palatino
The start of the school year in the Philippines has been delayed, again. Can the Duterte government gets its act together?
Killing of Philippines Peace Consultant Sparks Scrutiny of Government Investigations
By Nick Aspinwall
The death of activist Randy Echanis drew criticism of Quezon City’s police force, along with government probes of politically motivated killings.