Timor-Leste is emerging as a new front in Southeast Asia's fight against cybercrime as organized scam syndicates relocate amid regional crackdowns. Here's why UNODC says the country has become a growing target and what it means for the region.
A Fragile Transition Edges Toward Democracy: Why BARMMโs Historic Sept 14 Parliamentary Elections Signal Hope Amid the Chaos
Despite leadership clashes and repeated delays, the Bangsamoro region is inching toward genuine self-rule in its historic parliamentary elections.
Philippines Just Hit Upper-Middle-Income Status โ What It Really Means for Filipinos
The World Bank has officially classified the Philippines as an upper-middle-income economy, a major milestone driven by years of broad-based growth. While challenges like inequality remain, the upgrade signals progress toward higher development.
BARMMโs Historic Parliamentary Elections: Peace, Power & Peril โ Whatโs Really at Stake?
The upcoming Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections mark a defining moment for BARMM. From completing the MILF peace agreement to shaping governance and security, everything is on the line as the region transitions to full elected rule.
Why Your June Electric Bill May Be Slightly Lower โ and Whatโs Behind It
Filipino households may see slight relief in their June electricity bills after NGCP reduced transmission charges. The decrease, driven by lower wheeling and ancillary services costs, highlights how grid-related expenses influence what consumers ultimately pay for power.
Call Centers vs. Factories: How a Single Economic Gamble Changed Southeast Asia Forever, Leaving Philippines Behind
Decades of relying on BPO jobs and worker remittances delivered stability and a rising middle class โ but at the cost of the manufacturing boom that lifted Vietnam and other Southeast Asian peers. As AI threatens outsourcing and talent continues…
Two Teens Kill 3, Wound 7 in Philippines School Shooting: A Test of Strict Gun Laws, Juvenile Justice After Bullying Grudge
In a rare school shooting in the central Philippines, two teenage boys allegedly entered San Jose National High School in Tacloban City on Monday morning and opened fire in a classroom, killing three students and wounding at least seven others.…
What Small Nations Might Learn From the Standoff Between Iran and the United States
From Tehran to Manila, governments are studying Iranโs standoff with the United States. The country preserved its regime and sovereignty โ yet the human and economic toll raises questions about whether defiance is a viable model for smaller nations.
EXPLAINER: What is a โPink Moonโโand Why it Wonโt Look Pink in the Philippines
The April โPink Moonโ isnโt actually pink. This explainer breaks down its origins and why skywatchers in the Philippines see a normal full moon.
Half a Century After the Oil Shocks, Mindanao Still Pays the Price of Dependence
Decades after the oil shocks, Mindanao remains vulnerable to fuel price spikes, exposing deep inequalities and the urgent need for energy reform.
Rodrigo Duterte Waived His Right To Attend The ICC Hearing: What Happens Next?
Former president Rodrigo Duterte has formally waived his right to attend the confirmation of charges hearing before the International Criminal Court (ICC) over his administrationโs war on drugs. With Duterte choosing not to appear โ either in person or via…
Sovereignty Or Selective Justice? Why Bam Aquinoโs ICC Remark Raises Questions
Senator Bam Aquino asserted during a Senate caucus that Filipinos who committed crimes in the country should be prosecuted here. His statement sounded patriotic, even legally sound. However, in the context of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) action against former…
