Context Dispatch
Growing global push for maritime security partnerships with PH amid regional tensions
In 2025, increasing international support is emerging for stronger maritime security partnerships with the Philippines, driven by ongoing tensions over China's aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea. Ambassadors from key nations, including France, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, the European Union, and Australia, convened at a maritime security forum organized by the Stratbase Institute and the French Embassy in Manila.
DA announces gradual rice price cut, aims for P49/kilo by March
In a significant move for rice consumers, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. announced on Friday that the Department of Agriculture (DA) will gradually lower the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported rice in the coming weeks.
Trump to declare national emergency at southern border
In his second inaugural address as the 47th president, Donald Trump announced a sweeping series of executive orders aimed at overhauling U.S. immigration and...
Japan, U.S., Philippines strengthen ties in key virtual summit
On 13 January 2025, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, U.S. President Joe Biden, and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. held a 25-minute video conference, marking a significant step in trilateral cooperation.
Public satisfaction with Marcos Jr. and Duterte declines amid economic and transparency concerns
In the December 2024 Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, public satisfaction with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte showed a notable shift, reflecting growing concerns over the economy and governance transparency. The survey, conducted from 12 to 18 December, found that Marcos’ satisfaction rating dropped 13 percentage points to +19, while Duterte’s rating fell by 6 points to +21.
