Politics and Policy
257 reports
Year-End Verdict Targeted for Vice President Impeachment Trial After Three Out of Four Articles of Impeachment Dropped
The Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte resumes November 9, focusing solely on Article 2 regarding unexplained wealth after prosecutors dropped three charges. With Senate leadership aiming for a year-end verdict, shifting political ties increase the likelihood of conviction.
Malacañang to Pursue Diplomatic, De-Escalatory Route Amid Public Disputes Between Chinese Embassy, Philippine Defense Officials
Malacañang is maintaining a diplomatic route amid rising friction between Philippine defense officials and the Chinese Embassy, despite calls to declare the Chinese Ambassador persona non grata. To avoid economic fallout, Manila prioritizes de-escalation over formal diplomatic expulsions.
Lengthy Deliberations for the Social Media Restriction For Children Bill Likely at the Bicameral Conference Committee
Congress passed differing bills restricting social media for minors following recent youth violence, with the Senate proposing a total ban for under-18s. Lengthy bicameral deliberations are expected, and enterprises should monitor potential digital compliance and policy shifts.
Senate Ratifies Status of Visiting Forces Agreement between France and Philippines
The Philippine Senate ratified a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement with France, enabling joint military training and humanitarian operations. This sixth defense pact with a allied nation highlights growing security cooperation in the West Philippine Sea.
Chinese Volunteer Teachers Withdrawn From Filipino-Chinese Schools Amid Scrutiny Into State-Sponsored Political Influence Linkages
Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry withdraw over 150 Chinese volunteer teachers following security concerns.
Negotiations Ongoing for Bangsamoro Parliament Majority Ahead of October 30 Inaugural Session
Negotiations are ongoing to form a majority coalition in the newly elected Bangsamoro Parliament ahead of the October thirty inaugural session, where the region will elect its first regular Chief Minister.
Barangay, SK Elections Postponed to 2028
Local polls are officially off the table until 2028 after President Marcos signed a law extending barangay terms to five years. The surprise delay unfreezes stalled social welfare subsidies right before candidacy filings—though pending Supreme Court challenges could still overturn the move.
Excise Tax Suspended Anew for LPG, Kerosene; Excise Tax Suspension for Other Fuel Products Unlikely
With global oil prices spiking past $80 a barrel, EO 125 temporarily halts excise taxes on household staples like LPG and kerosene. But don't count on cheap gasoline just yet: top financial institutions are urging the government to limit tax cuts and push for targeted transport subsidies.
Senate Impeachment Conviction Voting Threshold Lowered to 14 from 16
On September 29, the Senate Impeachment Court reduced the conviction threshold for Vice President Sara Duterte’s trial from 16 to 14 votes due to four absent senators. Applicable only to this case, the ruling makes conviction more feasible while lowering the acquittal threshold to seven votes.
Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections Likely To Be Postponed
The Philippine Congress has adopted a bill to postpone the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections to November 2028 and subsequently extend the terms of involved elected officials to five years. The Marcos administration appears undecided on the measure.
Initial Results of the First Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections Suggest the Possibility of a Coalition Government
The initial Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections will likely produce a coalition government, as no party won a majority. A coalition involving the Moro Islamic Liberation Front carries the lowest risk of violence, preserving political stability and peace process progress.
Anti-LEC, Anti-Pax Silica Demonstrations Likely to Recur as These Projects Progress
Protests against the Luzon Economic Corridor will likely recur around project forums and events beyond Metro Manila. While turnout may grow as policy updates emerge, broader political participation remains unlikely.
Postponement of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) Proposed but Marcos Administration Remains Undecided
The proposed postponement of the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections remains uncertain. It poses minimal operational risks to most businesses. Furthermore, these developments are not expected to affect political stability.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Voices Concern Over Heightened US-Philippine Military Presence Near Sabah
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim expressed concern over the upgraded US-Philippine military presence on Balabac Island near Sabah. While Manila maintains its claim, analysts expect Malaysia to boost its defense footprint rather than risk direct conflict.
Executive Order 122 to Steer the Critical Minerals Industry in the Philippines
Under EO 122 signed on August 21, the Philippines aims to boost domestic refining of critical minerals like nickel and copper. While offering tax incentives and fast-tracked permits to attract investors, analysts note the policy lacks mandates for tech transfer and local ownership.
Writ of Preliminary Injunction Against Metro Manila Wage Hike Order Issued
A preliminary injunction has indefinitely suspended the Metro Manila minimum wage increase, keeping payroll changes on hold pending further legal resolution. Enterprises should monitor ongoing court proceedings and prepare for potential labor cost adjustments if the order is eventually upheld.
President Marcos Appoints New Health Secretary In Just A Month
New leadership at the Department of Health (DOH) and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) aims to address ongoing healthcare delivery challenges. Philippine enterprises should monitor potential policy adjustments and health benefit developments under the Universal Health Care Law.
Marcos Administration Renews List of Priority Legislation in Latest LEDAC Meeting
On August 6, 2026, LEDAC updated the Marcos administration’s priority bills through June 2027, adding tax relief measures (e.g., ProGRESS) and energy reforms like EPIRA system loss charge removals and the Sariling Kuryente Act. Contentious items like the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill remained.
Marcos Administration Declares Tax Relief Measures for Middle-Class, Small Businesses As Priority Legislation
President Marcos called for amending EPIRA to remove systems loss charges from power bills, offering up to 10% in consumer savings. While House lawmakers filed implementing bills, utility leaders warned that forcing distributors to absorb the costs could strain the power industry.
Uncertainties Surrounding The Philippines’ Pax Silica Membership Draws Civil Society Scrutiny
President Marcos highlighted the Pax Silica hub in New Clark City during his SONA, but civil society and business groups questioned its transparency, energy and water demands, and actual economic benefits. Officials noted that the US-Philippines framework will be finalized by November.
Energy: President Marcos Calls for Removal of Systems Loss Charges from Consumers’ Electricity Bills
In his SONA, President Marcos proposed removing systems loss charges from electricity bills via EPIRA amendments, offering consumers up to 10% in savings. While lawmakers filed implementing bills, industry leaders warned that absorbing these costs could strain power distribution utilities.
Half-Year Outlook 2026
The mid-year outlook highlights a decline in violent insurgency and kidnapping, alongside a rise in crimes against businesses and financially motivated cybercrimes. The national economy faces slow growth and elevated inflation driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict.
President Marcos Jr. Signs EO 119 to Modernize Data Management and Classification for Government Agencies
Executive Order Number 119 modernizes digital data management and cybersecurity standards across Philippine government agencies. The directive mandates data classification based on confidentiality and risk levels to enforce strict access and storage protocols.
Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete Assumes Leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete is the 61st AFP Chief of Staff, succeeding General Romeo Brawner Jr. A seasoned Scout Ranger, Lieutenant General Nafarrete is expected to strengthen the AFP's modernization and external defense efforts.
Preparations Commence Ahead of BARMM Parliamentary Elections in September
The Commission on Elections began ballot printing for the September 14, 2026, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao parliamentary elections. To prevent fraud, no excess ballots will be printed and precincts are capped at 600 voters. Multiple regional political parties will compete.
Abalos Appointed in Redefined Cabinet Secretary Post
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Benjamin Abalos Jr. as Cabinet Secretary. Leading the Strategic Action and Response Office, Abalos will provide strategic political advice and coordinate with local governments and civil society without managing Cabinet meetings.
Recommended Reading: Sara vs the House: Inside the ugliest live political feud of the Marcos era
Growing political friction between Vice President Sara Duterte and the House over her budget and confidential funds marks a notable shift in executive-legislative relations. This intensifying political confrontation introduces elevated governance and stability risks for commercial enterprises.
Iglesia ni Cristo Holds Three-Day Protest Against the Arrest of Senator and Key Church Official Rodante Marcoleta
The Iglesia ni Cristo's three-day rally disrupted travel in parts of Metro Manila as thousands protested in support of Senator Rodante Marcoleta. Further demonstrations and operational delays are possible as political tensions and legal proceedings continue.
Philippines, Canada Now Strategic Partners for Economic and Defense Cooperation
During President Marcos's Canada visit from July 1–4, 2026, the Philippines and Canada elevated ties to a Strategic Partnership. The nations pledged CAD 2B to the Luzon Economic Corridor, while the Philippine delegation secured USD 2.5B in Canadian investment commitments for tech and energy.
Impeachment Trial of Vice President Sara Duterte Begins
The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte began on July 6, with only 21 senator-judges present due to Senator Marcoleta's arrest. Senator Escudero was elected presiding officer and maintained the 16-vote conviction threshold, while the prosecution subpoenaed the VP's financial records.
Senator Rodante Marcoleta, Co-Accused Arrested Over Alleged PHP 75 Million Plunder Case
Senator Rodante Marcoleta was arrested for plunder over PHP 75M in undisclosed donations. The arrest complicates Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial by altering the Senator-Judge count and is expected to trigger protests from the Iglesia ni Cristo, where Marcoleta is a top official.
Religious and Civil Society Groups Join in ‘Generally Peaceful’ Anti-Corruption Rally
A "White Ribbon March" saw religious and civic groups fill Quezon City's EDSA corridor on June 28, 2026. Spurred by nationwide flood control scandals, demonstrators rallied for governance reforms. Analysts viewed the turnout of up to 10,000 as a sign of growing protest fatigue.
Senate Finally Regroups in Special Congress Session
The Philippine Senate convened a special session to resolve leadership disputes and pass urgent measures. The senate elected Senator Sherwin Gatchalian as Senate President and confirming critical military and diplomatic appointments.
Philippines Strengthens Diplomatic Avenues with Russia and Germany
Philippines strengthened international ties by hosting the President of Germany and co-chairing a summit between ASEAN and Russia. The visits focused on expanding economic cooperation, maritime security, and securing alternative energy sources for the nation.
Hacktivists Deface Senate, House, and NBI Websites
Hacktivists defaced the websites of the Philippine Senate, House of Representatives, and National Bureau of Investigation. Driven by political motives, the successive attacks highlight the persistent threat of hacktivism targeting public institutions amid rising local tensions.
Recommended Reading: How Senate committees work and why they matter
A Rappler article explores the vital roles of Philippine Senate committees. Key chairmanships currently remain uncertain due to a Senate leadership dispute.
House Approves Anti-Dynasty Bill on Third Reading
The House approved the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill on third reading, marking the furthest progress of such a measure at the national level. While supporters hail it as a landmark reform, critics argue its limited scope leaves loopholes that could allow political dynasties to persist.
Leadership Rift Worsens Within the Moro Islamic Liberation Front As Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua Is Suspended As Military Chief-of-Staff
The MILF suspended Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua as its military chief of staff, deepening internal divisions ahead of the 2026 elections. Observers warn the leadership rift could further delay the peace process and create uncertainty over regional security.
Senate in the Center of Political Intrigue, Civil Disturbance
The Senate has tightened security after receiving reported threats from the NBI amid ongoing leadership disputes, protests, and high-profile legal cases involving senators.
Philippines, Japan Now Comprehensive Strategic Partners
The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the Philippines and Japan enhances regional security through defense cooperation, intelligence sharing, and military transfers, while strengthening economic stability through increased infrastructure investments and energy resilience initiatives.
House Approves Anti-Political Dynasty Bill on Second Reading, Critics Note Its Limitations
The passage of the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill (HB 8389) on second reading marks a historic legislative step, but its narrow restriction to the second degree of consanguinity leaves significant legal loopholes, allowing entrenched networks to bypass restrictions via the party-list system.
Presidents Trump, Xi Met in China
Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping reaffirmed commitments to strategic stability, trade cooperation, and dialogue on Iran and Taiwan during Trump’s state visit to China, although analysts expect existing geopolitical tensions and policy positions to largely remain unchanged in the near term.
ANALYSIS: Making Sense of the May 13 Senate Shootout
The May 13 Senate shootout highlighted escalating tensions over the ICC warrant against Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, exposing security risks tied to his possible arrest while stopping short of triggering broader political instability or institutional breakdown in the Philippines.
House Impeaches Vice President Duterte For the Second Time, While Senate Installs Pro-Duterte Chamber Leadership
Vice President Sara Duterte is impeached by the House of Representatives anew, but a major reset in the Senate might secure the Vice President an acquittal – assuming that the trial proceeds in the first place.
First of Two ASEAN 2026 Summits Concluded in Cebu
The first ASEAN 2026 Summit in Cebu ended with agreements on regional energy and maritime cooperation amid rising tensions. However, limited progress was made on key issues, including the South China Sea disputes and Myanmar’s ongoing political crisis.
House Set to Vote Once Again on the Impeachment of Vice President Duterte
The House of Representatives Justice Committee unanimously approved Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte. A plenary vote is set for May 11. If approved, a Senate trial will commence, where 2028 election alliances will heavily dictate the final political outcome.
Electricity Prices May Further Increase in May Following Rate Hikes in March, April
Electricity rates in the Philippines continue to rise due to higher generation costs, increased summer demand, and global fuel price surges linked to Middle East tensions. Enterprises should anticipate further hikes in May as shipping expenses and inflationary pressures impact coal imports.
ICC Confirms Charges Against Former President Rodrigo Duterte
The International Criminal Court has confirmed crimes against humanity charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte. This move to trial signals prolonged legal proceedings and increases the risk of arrest for his top allies, potentially impacting Philippine political stability.
Pax Silica and the Philippines: What We Currently Know
The Philippines joined the United States-led Pax Silica initiative to secure the artificial intelligence supply chain. The resulting Economic Security Zone will accelerate allied manufacturing, though infrastructure and constitutional challenges must be navigated.
More Transport Strikes and Protests Against Oil Companies Expected in the Coming Weeks
High fuel prices will drive transport strikes from April 21 to 23, causing commuting delays in Metro Manila, especially Quezon City. Enterprises should also prepare for peaceful but disruptive protests targeting oil company headquarters in the coming weeks.