(December 18, 2005) In theory, the national budget can be a powerful mechanism for ensuring that public resources are used for the welfare of the majority. Unfortunately, narrow interests have perpetually hijacked the direction of Philippine economic policy and this is fully reflected in the national government budgets annually drawn up and implemented.

(October 14, 2005) The judiciary is the "biggest stumbling block" in the Philippine government’s effort to curb corruption, mainly because of its snail-paced trial of graft charges against corrupt government officials, Hong Kong’s former anti-corruption czar said.

(September 20, 2005) A Filipino senator said there was no cause for excitement over the government’s debt-for-equity proposal to the international community saying that the United Nations was certain to veto it.

(August 29, 2005) Filipino Senate chairman continues to urge government to exhaust all possible means to drastically reduce the country’s massive debts.

(August 26, 2005) Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago said the Philippine government should try to avoid the terms imposed by the International Monetary Fund and deal directly with its creditors.

(August 26, 2005)The Philippines is still paying the costs of Marcos the Elder’s kleptocracy, whether in the form of higher power costs because of an unused power plant or unending debt payments incurred by a thieving regime.

(July 7, 2005) Whatever happens, the fact remains that many Filipinos already foresee a post-Arroyo scenario and the only thing that is preventing that from happening is who – or what – will replace her.

(July 7, 2005) The contents of President Arroyo’s alleged taped conversation with an election official – believed to be Commission on Elections Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano – could get her as much as 23-years in prison.

(July 7, 2005) In few countries does an assurance of political neutrality from the military cause as much nervousness as in the Philippines. And with good reason.