The Indo-Pacific faces an array of asymmetric security challenges, particularly in its maritime domain. This includes the blatant disregard by antagonistic and coercive states of its neighbors’ national sovereignty and territorial integrity through regular encroachment, the presence of maritime militias, and the enforcement of the cabbage strategy and other gray zone activities. Read More

The Philippines and India have long shared a strong diplomatic relationship, with the two countries enjoying intertwined histories that date back centuries. In recent years, the bilateral relations between the two countries have increased in terms of both economic and political cooperation. This has been characterized by an active exchange of high-level visits, as well as enhanced trade and investment links. Read More

Just as the SONA in the previous year outlined the administration’s priorities, there is an expectation that the SONA this year will provide more insight into the continuing governance framework that will be implemented in the next 5 years. In the assessment of the President’s SONA, past commitments will also be laid out, as new promises will be made. In this address as well, achievements of the president in his first year will be laid out with the expectation of more in the following years. Therefore, a thorough analysis of its content, outlined policy directions, and even goals must be scrutinized. Read More

Climate change and global warming have exacerbated the occurrence of droughts putting pressure on water resources, security, and sustainability. In the case of the Philippines, sustainable water resource management is a major concern due to unpredictable weather patterns, El Niño, and the lack of a comprehensive and effective water management system that caters to the increasing demand of the growing population and economy. Inaction towards this warrants a future where water scarcity and insecurity are the norms. Read More

As security challenges continue to undermine and challenge the peace and stability in the region, the Philippines and other like-minded states must work together to uphold the arbitral tribunal ruling and effectively address emerging security threats, particularly in the maritime domain. Through multilateral cooperation, they should also build mechanisms to ensure that states abide by their obligations under international law and cease provocative behavior in the region.   Read More

Transparency and accountability in government are important factors in ensuring robust and inclusive economic growth and fostering public trust in institutions. A year after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s May 2022 elections victory, there is a need to step back and assess what the government has done to ensure that these core democratic values are upheld. Read More

As governance is the critical development link, what is evolving in the first year of the Marcos Jr. administration is inclusive governance. In turn, what also reverberates among the challenges and opportunities posed by the four sectors involved in strategic collaboration between and among stakeholders.  Read More