The development of Balabac Island under the U.S.-Philippines Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) represents a concrete move in Manila’s strategy to safeguard its sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). However, this U.S.-focused buildup is only part of the picture. The Philippines has intentionally broadened its defense partnerships, building a strong and swiftly evolving … Read more
As the United States enforces a naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz – the chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of global oil flows – the world is confronting a stark reminder of geopolitical reality. Global crude prices have surged overnight, supply chains are tightening, and the ripple effects are already reaching … Read more
The Strait of Hormuz has been closed since late February 2026. US-Israeli attacks caused Iran to block the narrow passage that usually carries about one-fifth of the world’s sea oil. East Asia is most affected. The fastest route from the Gulf goes right through it. Oil market researcher Rory Johnston explained the situation clearly in … Read more
The House of Representatives justice committee has advanced two impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte to the hearing proper stage. This marks the second distinct cycle of proceedings since the Supreme Court struck down the prior effort in July 2025. The current complaints rest on documented allegations of misuse involving P612.5 million in confidential … Read more
What the ruling actually changed — and what Philippine foreign policy has done with it The Permanent Court of Arbitration’s July 12, 2016 ruling ran to 501 pages and was unambiguous on every major legal question it addressed. The Philippines’ EEZ rights were valid under UNCLOS. China’s nine-dash line claim had no basis in international … Read more
An investigation into the US-Philippines semiconductor partnership reveals promise, friction, and an infrastructure crisis that could doom the whole enterprise By Gerald Lacuarta for PhilReport.com The United States has chosen the Philippines as one of just seven countries to receive funding under the CHIPS Act’s International Technology Security and Innovation Fund. It’s a $500 million … Read more
A new generation of Filipino leaders is steering global conversations on artificial intelligence—but critical gaps threaten to undermine their progress The Philippines is quietly emerging as a significant voice in the global artificial intelligence conversation, driven by an unlikely coalition of Nobel Prize winners, startup founders, and financial regulators who share a common mission: ensuring … Read more