Speaking Out

By Ignacio R. Bunye The local election campaign has begun, blending old traditions with new approaches. While proclamation rallies, motorcades and integrity walks still draw crowds, the campaign noise is slowly shifting. Pulong-pulongs and bullhorns echoing through neighborhoods are being taken over by social media. Traditional handshakes are becoming digital through posts, direct messages and …

By Ignacio R. Bunye Watching Alex Eala in her thrilling run at the Miami Open, I couldn’t help but notice the BPI and Globe logos adorning her sleeves. These symbols of support reflect a larger story — Ayala Corporation’s early recognition of Alex’s exceptional talent and its decision to appoint her as the goodwill ambassador …

By Ignacio R. Bunye The legality and circumstances of the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte will continue to be challenged both inside the court and in the streets. Regardless of how the Supreme Court decides, the ultimate question that begs to be answered is: Should the former President be held accountable for his actions …

By Ignacio R. Bunye The arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte on charges of crimes against humanity is a watershed moment in Philippine history. For years, Duterte’s controversial war on drugs left a trail of devastation, with thousands of lives lost and families torn apart. Now, as he faces the International Criminal Court (ICC) in …

By Ignacio R. Bunye March 1, 2025 was a red letter day in Muntinlupa City as it marked its 30th Cityhood Anniversary with a series of milestone events that showcased the city’s remarkable achievements and vision for the future. The day’s highlight was the traditional State of the City Address held at the Filinvest Tent …

By Ignacio R. Bunye The recent decision by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove the Philippines from its global “gray list” marks a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. This victory is not just a symbolic win; it has real, tangible benefits for millions of …

By Ignacio R. Bunye The Philippines faces a significant public health challenge with the recent surge in dengue cases which demand urgent attention and action. The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a staggering 40 percent increase in dengue cases compared to the same period last year. With 28,384 cases reported nationwide as of February …

By Ignacio R. Bunye The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has been actively enforcing laws against election offenses, particularly focusing on vote-buying and campaign violations. While these efforts are commendable, one must ask: Is the Comelec doing enough to ensure fair, honest and credible midterm elections? Comelec has formed the Committee on Kontra Bigay to enforce …

By Ignacio R. Bunye The recent impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte marks a pivotal moment in Philippine politics, shaking the very core of our democratic principles. With 215 congressmen endorsing the impeachment complaint and its subsequent transmission to the Senate, we are confronted with a critical test of our commitment to upholding the rule …

By Ignacio R. Bunye Today marks a significant milestone for the Philippine financial market as the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. (PDEx) introduces the country’s first peso-denominated interest rate hedge. This innovative derivative product promises to offer investors a powerful tool to mitigate interest rate risks, marking a crucial step toward a more robust and …