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REALPOLITIKBy Benjie Alejandro One of the most striking features of Philippine society is the resilience and cheerfulness of its people. The latest World Happiness Report 2026 places the Philippines fourth among Southeast Asian nations in terms of happiness. At first glance, this seems like a cause for celebration. But in the realm of realpolitik, this cultural trait is not merely …

The emerging debate—initiated by the camp of Vice President Sara Duterte—over why the House Committee on Justice is prioritizing impeachment proceedings instead of confronting the fuel price crisis, does little to ease the daily burden of ordinary Filipinos.  For millions already stretched thin, this discourse feels detached from reality. Financial assistance programs, while loudly promoted, fail to reach a significant portion of the population, particularly the middle …

LOVE FOR ALL​By: Virginia Rodriguez President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has sharpened his directive to accelerate the construction of farm-to-market roads, recognizing infrastructure as a lifeline for struggling Filipino farmers. During a recent inspection in Barangay New Casay, Davao del Norte, the President underscored the urgency of completing critical road networks. Joining him was Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., highlighting …

The Philippines will have ample food supply at least until July, the Department of Agriculture (DA) assured last week, easing concerns over possible price spikes amid tensions in the Middle East. “Definitely, walang issue sa supply. I can safely say hanggang June or even July, walang issue sa supply of almost everything (there’s no issue in supply. I can safely …

The Philippines is pushing to seal a landmark free trade agreement with the European Union by the latter half of 2026, as negotiations gain fresh momentum. Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said both sides are working toward wrapping up talks “probably the start of the second half of this year,” signaling a faster pace in discussions. “We are looking …

The Philippine National Police on Friday assured the public it is fully prepared to keep peace and order amid concerns that rising fuel prices could trigger more theft and robbery. PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the current economic climate is unlikely to spark a surge in crime, but emphasized that the police force is ready for any scenario. …

Amid the ripple effects of rising global oil prices, Bam Aquino on Friday called for targeted government assistance to help middle-income Filipinos who are often left out of traditional aid programs. Aquino warned that those above the poverty line—such as minimum wage earners and small business owners—remain highly vulnerable to price shocks despite not qualifying for government support. “Iyong mga …

The government has formally filed four tax evasion cases against businessman Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya before the Court of Tax Appeals, clearing earlier delays caused by a motion for reconsideration. Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said the motion has been dismissed, paving the way for the Department of Justice to proceed with charges involving alleged tax evasion and failure to file …

The government is reviewing the conditions for a possible reduction or suspension of excise taxes on fuel, Malacañang said, as global oil prices remain volatile. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier stressed that the proposal involves a “very complicated calculation,” requiring a careful assessment of multiple factors before any decision is made. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro explained that the President …

The Bureau of Customs will hold another public auction of high-end vehicles worth over ₱265 million, offering bidders a chance to acquire 11 luxury units through sealed bidding. The auction is set at 10 a.m. on March 27 at the POM Conference Room in Port Area, Manila, with a total floor price of ₱265,996,987.32. Prospective buyers may inspect the vehicles …