The Philippine government, bloated with debt and addicted to political patronage, has now found a new target to bleed dry: the Filipino saver. On July 1, 2025, the Marcos Jr. administration implemented Republic Act No. 12214, deceptively named the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act (CMEPA), imposing a flat 20% withholding tax on all interest income…
“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” – John C. Maxwell As there are many types of followers and situations, there are also many kinds of leaders. While some may claim that they were born with these, many attributes their leadership qualities and traits to their environment, exposure…
Peaceful cities do not come as a matter of course. It is a product of uncompromising leadership, law enforcement and discipline among others. This year’s most peaceful cities in the Philippines are Dumaguete and Davao. The two cities have distinct attributes however. Dumaguete City total land area is about 34 square kilometers with a population…
In Photo: Newly appointed Office of the Vice President (OVP) Spokesperson Atty. Ruth B. Castelo (OVP) The declaration by the Commission on Audit that the financial statement of the Office of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte was accurate, complete, and fully compliant with existing laws, regulations, and accounting standards virtually absolved her from any wrongdoing…
On the way to Medellin, Cebu for Cebu Food Security Forum, I made a side trip to Sagay City, Negros Occidental on the invitation of Congressman Alfredo Marañon III, son of a departed friend, former Governor Freddie Marañon. While Cong. Thirdy has not shared with me the reason behind the invitation, I already have an…
photo courtesy: eastasiaforum The Marcos administration has crossed a dangerous line — and it’s not just fiscal. According to BusinessWorld, Malacañang now claims that a 70% debt-to-GDP ratio is the new global “benchmark” for fiscal sustainability. This is not just economic mismanagement. It’s gaslighting — an attempt to normalize recklessness while shifting the burden to…
“Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek As leaders, it’s now common to have and lead 4 generations (Boomers, Gen X, Millenials and Gen X) in your team. Each generation having its own characteristics, contributions and expectations. While it is important to know…
“Retirement is wonderful if you have two essentials – much to live on and much to live for.” – Unknown Picture this: You are now 60 years old and have recently retired after years of working your heart out. You now have all the time and the money to experience your dream vacations like the…
Richard Heydarian who is described in the social media as a political scientist and often referred to as an “analyst” has become not only a laughing stock but an ignoramus when he referred to Davao City as a sub-Saharan metropolis … meaning poor. Not a few Davawenyos were mad at his attribution and wanted him…
I meet with the Mayors of Bogo City, Medellin and Daanbantayan to propose the establishment of Pilot Farms for two new crops, Sorghum and Soybeans. My engagements with Bogo City Mayor Mayel Martinez, Medellin Mayor Edwin Salimbangon and Daanbantayan Mayor Gilbert Arabis were arranged by a friend and supporter Dr. Ronald Oporto of Bogo City….
