Politics and Policy
257 reports
President Marcos to Meet Japan Prime Minister and New Zealand Defense Minister to Finalize Defense Agreements
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is finalizing key defense agreements with Japan and New Zealand amid regional security tensions. Enterprises should monitor these expanding security alliances, which aim to strengthen maritime safety and long-term stability.
Vice President Duterte Tops Approval Survey as Allied Senators Gain Ground in New Polls
Vice President Sara Duterte gained the sole majority approval rating as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. saw sharp declines, alongside strong polling for Duterte-backed candidates. Enterprises must monitor these shifting public sentiments for variations in political and policy stability.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Signs Law Turning NEDA into the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. established the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development, shifting policy leadership away from the Department of Finance. Enterprises should monitor this transition for changes in economic governance and long-term regulatory priorities.
DICT Undergoes Leadership Transitions With Courtesy Resignations Submitted by Top Officials, Allegedly Including CICC Leadership
The leadership transition and courtesy resignations within the Department of Information and Communications Technology may temporarily disrupt project continuity. Enterprises must monitor these changes for impacts on national cybersecurity operations.
Newly Appointed DICT Secretary Calls for the “Courtesy Resignation” of Executive Officials and Directors of the Agency
The Department of Information and Communications Technology requested courtesy resignations from senior officials for an operational review. Enterprises should anticipate temporary disruptions to national cybersecurity initiatives and digital infrastructure projects.
Duterte Supporters Celebrate Former President’s 80th Birthday with Rallies
Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s 80th birthday saw a large rally in Davao City, but nationwide demonstrations underperformed. Enterprises should note this limited turnout amid the start of local election campaigns, signaling potential limits to the Duterte camp’s mobilizing power.
INC Releases Statement of Support for Former President Duterte
The INC issued a statement supporting former President Rodrigo Duterte and criticizing the administration. Enterprises must monitor potential large-scale protest mobilizations and shifting political alignments that could impact operational continuity.
Recommend Reading: What to expect in the 6 months before Duterte’s ICC pre-trial
The International Criminal Court is investigating former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, with potential arrest warrants expected by September 2025. Enterprises must monitor ongoing nationwide public protests, which could lead to localized disruptions and security risks.
Former Union Digital Bank CEO Aguda Appointed DICT Secretary
Henry Rhoel Aguda was appointed as the new Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology. Given his extensive banking and technology background, enterprises should monitor his upcoming initiatives to address escalating national cybersecurity threats.
Former President Duterte’s ICC Arrest: Implications for Political Stability, Elections, and Risk in the Philippines
The International Criminal Court arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte on March 11, 2025, heightens national political polarization. Enterprises must prepare for potential localized unrest, election volatility, and subsequent operational disruptions.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte Arrested Under ICC Arrest Warrant
Former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested under an International Criminal Court warrant for crimes against humanity. Enterprises must prepare for heightened political polarization and potential localized unrest by reviewing physical security and operational continuity plans.
LIST: Major Shifts in Cabinet Leadership
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reorganized his Cabinet by replacing the heads of transport, communications, and security. While bureaucratic frameworks ensure policy and operational continuity, enterprises should monitor these leadership transitions for minor institutional shifts.
Senate Releases Proposed Timeline of Vice President Duterte’s Impeachment Trial
The Senate scheduled the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte for July 30, 2025. Leadership emphasized strict adherence to the timeline. Public opinion is divided. The proceedings highlight ongoing political tensions and potential risks to governance and business.
President Marcos Jr. Signs Law Deferring Bangsamoro Elections from May 12 to October 14 this Year
President Ferdinand Marcos Junior signed Republic Act No. 12123 postponing the first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections to October 2025. Enterprises should monitor unresolved issues like the exclusion of Sulu province and budget shortfalls that could impact regional security.
IRR for CREATE MORE ACT Released
The Fiscal Incentives Review Board released the Implementing Rules and Regulations for Republic Act No. 12066. It outlines procedures and penalties, while clarifying work-from-home arrangements for Philippine Economic Zone Authority and Board of Investments locators.
Former President Duterte and His ‘Jokes’: Kill Senators in Bomb Attack to Make Room for our Bets
Former President Rodrigo Duterte faces a criminal complaint after suggesting a bomb attack against lawmakers. While national officials face limited direct risk due to tight security, enterprises must monitor potential low-level localized violence from radicalized followers.
Recommended Reading: ‘True mujahideen’: Where the Bangsamoro stands, 6 years in
Six years after the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, incomplete rebel decommissioning and weak infrastructure delay full stability. Enterprises must monitor the upcoming parliamentary elections for potential shifts in regional governance and security.
Vice President Sara Duterte Impeached by House but Senate to Defer Trial Until After SONA; Duterte Camp Files Graft Complaint Against House
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte, initiating a Senate trial. As political divisions worsen, enterprises must monitor the resulting governance instability, potential policy shifts, and localized destabilization risks across the country.
Congress Passes Law Postponing Bangsamoro Polls to October 2025; Law Now Up for President Marcos’ Approval
Congress ratified a bill postponing the first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections from May to October 13. Regional officials support the 5-month delay to amend electoral laws, reapportion seats following the exclusion of Sulu province, and advance regional peace efforts.
Progressive Groups Hold Three Pro-Impeachment Protests on January 31
Three separate political rallies in Metro Manila drew 15,000 total attendees advocating for government accountability. While turnouts underperformed compared to religious events, enterprises should monitor persistent opposition mobilization for potential localized operational disruptions.
NEDA Department Bill Ratified by Bicameral Conference Committee
Congress ratified a bill to elevate the National Economic and Development Authority into the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development. While intended to strengthen socioeconomic planning, critics warn it may conflict with ongoing government right-sizing efforts.
US Secretary Nominees Confirmed: Rubio as Secretary of State, Hegseth as Secretary of Defense
The United States appointed Marco Rubio as Secretary of State and Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense. As these officials steward foreign policy and military strategy, enterprises must monitor how this leadership transition impacts Indo-Pacific alliances and regional security.
Recommended Reading: South Korea Detains Its President, but Crisis Is Far From Over
South Korea's political crisis mirrors the deepening Marcos-Duterte polarization in the Philippines. With Vice President Sara Duterte facing potential impeachment or arrest, enterprises must monitor risks of a tense political standoff and localized unrest.
The 6.326 Trillion 2025 National Budget: Largest Allocations, Vetoed Appropriations, and Controversies
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the PHP 6 trillion national budget. While infrastructure and national defense remain prioritized, deep cuts to health and education may trigger public dissatisfaction. Enterprises should monitor potential fiscal risks.
US President Donald Trump Signs Dozens of Executive Orders on His First Day in Office
The second Trump administration introduces major policy shifts in trade and security. While reshoring causes minor BPO uncertainty, the Philippines remains largely insulated due to trade dynamics, with US maritime and defense commitments remaining firm under Secretary Marco Rubio.
INC Amasses Over 1.5 Million for “Rally of Peace” Amid Tensions Between President, Vice President
The INC gathered over 1.5 million attendees in Manila for a “Rally of Peace” opposing the impeachment of VP Sara Duterte. Enterprises must monitor these massive religious-backed mobilizations, as they risk causing significant operational disruptions.
Vice President Sara Duterte No Longer Part of National Security Council
Executive Order No. 81 removed Vice President Sara Duterte from the National Security Council amid her rift with President Marcos. While this highlights severe political polarization, the military’s explicit loyalty to the chain of command preserves institutional stability for enterprises.
Congress Ratifies PHP 6.35 Trillion Budget for 2025
Congress ratified the PHP 6.352 trillion 2025 national budget, introducing major cuts to the OVP, PhilHealth, and DepEd. While President Marcos aims for a timely signing to avoid a reenacted budget, contentious provisions regarding health and education funding could cause delays.
PAGCOR Revokes POGO Licenses Two Weeks Before Total Ban
The total ban on POGOs via Executive Order No. 74 saw all operational licenses revoked. While localized areas face revenue drops and job displacements, the nationwide economic impact remains minimal at under 0.2% of GDP. Authorities are now focused on countering underground "guerilla" operations.
PSA Outlook: Dispute Between President Marcos Jr., Vice President Sara Duterte
While escalating Marcos-Duterte infighting and assassination threats heighten political volatility, widespread destabilization remains unlikely due to military neutrality. Enterprises should monitor localized, small-scale unrest and reputational risks impacting investor confidence.
ANALYSIS: Business, Religious, and Civil Society Groups Weigh in on the Country’s Political Climate
The executive rift creates reputational risks affecting investor sentiment, though day-to-day governance remains stable. While religious and business groups urge stability, the impending House decision on Vice President Duterte's impeachment will dictate the near-term political landscape.
Recommended Reading: What To Know About Martial Law And The Impeachment Vote Threatening South Korea’s President
South Korea's crisis ended with President Yoon Suk Yeol's 2025 removal and 2026 life sentence. Under President Lee Jae-myung, restored democratic order stabilized governance. However, enterprises must continue monitoring shifts in regional defense and maritime security partnerships.
Vice President Duterte Skips NBI Subpoena Over ‘Kill Threat’ to Marcos Family; Probe Rescheduled on December 11
The National Bureau of Investigation rescheduled Vice President Sara Duterte's hearing to December 11 over assassination threats and security law violations. While an impeachment complaint has been filed, the administration currently lacks the required Senate votes to remove her from office.
Supporters of Vice President Duterte Hold a Weeklong, Peaceful “Prayer Vigil” at EDSA Shrine
A weeklong prayer vigil by supporters of Vice President Sara Duterte at the EDSA Shrine failed to replicate historical mass protests. The unannounced gathering concluded with minimal security risks and negligible business disruption, causing only minor traffic incidents.
Vice President Sara Duterte Openly Threatens to ‘Assassinate’ President Marcos Jr.
Vice President Sara Duterte’s assassination threats against top leaders heighten political tensions but pose zero destabilization or economic disruption risks. Her camp lacks mobilization capability in Metro Manila, and the military remains loyal to the Philippine Constitution.
Navigating Risks of Election-Related Violence in the 2025 Philippine Midterm Polls
Election-related violence is expected to increase in rural areas during the upcoming elections, primarily targeting candidates and journalists. However, these incidents will remain highly targeted and pose minimal safety and security risks to private business operations.
Marcos Administration Reiterates Commitment to Interpol Obligations but Remains Quiet with ICC on Former President Duterte’s Looming Arrest Warrant
The Marcos administration affirmed its obligation to Interpol if it issues a red notice for former President Rodrigo Duterte over International Criminal Court probes. While avoiding direct cooperation, the government could use the international warrant to weaken his political influence.
Local Officials and Stakeholders Make Their Arguments as the Senate Begins Hearings on Postponing the 2025 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections
The Supreme Court ruling excluding Sulu from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region has prompted efforts to defer parliamentary elections. Postponement aims to resolve seat allocations and mitigate election violence, safeguarding the peace process essential for regional business stability.
United States of Donald Trump: Limited Impact on the Philippine Relationship
A second Donald Trump presidency is expected to preserve stable United States and Philippine security ties. Enterprises should prepare for potential trade tariffs, but the business process outsourcing sector faces minimal reshoring risk as bilateral defense relations remain strong.
President Marcos Orders ‘Immediate Ban’ on POGOs and Unlicensed Offshore Gaming in the Philippines, Including Those in Special Economic Zones
Executive Order No. 74 imposes an immediate, total ban on all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators and Internet Gaming Licenses by December 31, 2024. The Department of Justice clarified that the shutdown uniformly applies across all special economic zones without exception.
U.S. 2024 Elections: What It Means for Trade and Defense with the Philippines
The 2024 US presidential election results will have minimal impact on United States and Philippine relations. Strategic commitments under the Mutual Defense Treaty remain firm under a bipartisan consensus, while potential changes to global trade policy present manageable negotiation risks.
Recommended Reading: Meet the ‘Obese’ Political Dynasties of the Philippines
An investigative report maps entrenched political dynasties dominating the upcoming elections, linking family control to regional poverty and corruption risks. A new searchable database tracking these domains provides enterprises with vital intelligence for local governance assessments.
Is Another Extension Possible? Senate Files Measure as Bangsamoro Parliament Seeks to Postpone 2025 Parliamentary Polls
The Senate filed a bill to defer the inaugural Bangsamoro parliamentary elections to 2026 after a Supreme Court ruling excluded Sulu from the region. While postponement awaits legislative approval and presidential certification, election preparations remain underway.
Vice President Sara’s Hypothetical Impeachment Trial: Not Enough for a Conviction
The House of Representatives is set to launch impeachment hearings against Vice President Sara Duterte over the alleged misuse of confidential funds. However, an impeachment conviction remains unlikely due to the lack of the required two-thirds majority support within the Senate.
Former President Duterte Appears at Senate Hearing
During a Senate inquiry, former President Rodrigo Duterte admitted to maintaining a death squad and instructing police to provoke suspects. The hearing underscored his enduring political influence, as allied senators offered strong support, contrasting sharply with stricter House scrutiny.
Family is Everything in the 2025 Local Elections
Fierce local elections in Metro Manila, Davao City, and the Bangsamoro region highlight shifting dynastic power and deep political fractures. These contests signal localized governance unpredictability and elevated regulatory risks for commercial enterprises in the Philippines.
Senate’s Investigative Body Set to Create Sub-committee on Drug War Probe
The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will form a subcommittee to investigate former President Rodrigo Duterte's anti-drug campaign. This parallel legislative inquiry highlights shifting alliances and deepening political friction, signaling elevated stability risks for commercial enterprises.
Senator Bato Dela Rosa Admits Ignoring Calls from Foreign Contacts Believed to be ICC
Senator Ronald Dela Rosa admitted ignoring International Criminal Court interview requests regarding the previous administration's anti-drug campaign. This expanding scrutiny of prominent political figures signals elevated political stability risks for commercial enterprises.
The Anti-Climactic Pro-Duterte Senate Slate
A weak pro-Duterte slate reflects a consolidation of political power by the Marcos administration. While an administration-dominated legislature stabilizes near-term policy, it highlights persistent long-term governance and political stability risks for commercial enterprises.
Ruling Political Party Announces Alliance with MILF Party for 2025 Midterm and Bangsamoro Parliament Elections
The Marcos-backed PFP formalized a strategic alliance with the UBJP for the regional elections. While aimed at securing long-term peace continuity, this political consolidation provokes sharp backlash from rival clans, elevating short-term security and political stability risks for enterprises.