Changing Tides: Politics in Philippines

 The Philippines, strategically located in Southeast Asia, has always been at the center of global and regional power plays. Over the years, its political landscape has been influenced by alliances and tensions with various countries, each contributing to changes in policy, diplomacy, and governance. In today’s rapidly shifting geopolitical environment, the nation’s allies and enemies play a crucial role in shaping its politics, impacting everything from military strategies to economic policies. Let’s take a closer look at how these relationships are transforming Philippine politics. Allies of the Philippines: Strengthening Ties and Political Influence United States: A Long-Standing Ally The Philippines and the United States share a long and complex history, rooted in their colonial past and solidified by mutual defense agreements. The U.S. remains one of the Philippines' most important allies, particularly in the realms of defense and security. The 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT)...

 In the political landscape of the Philippines, two powerful families— the Marcoses and the Dutertes—have long been dominant forces. Their influence spans decades, shaping national policies, steering political debates, and leading the country through tumultuous times. As of 2024, this complex relationship continues to play a crucial role in Philippine politics. But are the Marcoses and Dutertes rivals or allies in this current era? Let's take a closer look.  The Marcoses: A Legacy Reborn The Marcos family, particularly through the late Ferdinand Marcos Sr.'s presidency (1965–1986), left a controversial legacy that still divides the nation. His martial law regime is remembered for its human rights abuses, corruption, and cronyism, but also for infrastructure development and nationalistic policies. Following the 1986 People Power Revolution, which ousted Marcos Sr., the family lay low for a time but never lost their political ambitions. Fast forward to the present: Ferdinand ...