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Unpacking the Filipino Dream: Optimism meets reality

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The Boston Consulting Group (BCG)’s latest research, “The Filipino Dream,” paints an inspiring picture of what gets Filipinos going: the aspirational dream of financial security in health emergencies and entrepreneurial passion. These dreams manifest the long-enduring strength and creativity of Filipinos, especially when it involves systemic and economic challenges that require the people to creatively overcome them. As we review this study, we can praise BCG for a brilliant analysis yet critically examine some conclusions that might differ from on ground realities in the Philippines.

Indeed, as we celebrate the findings of this study, it is very important to temper this optimism with a critical look at realities that may not exactly agree with the report’s conclusions.

CELEBRATING FILIPINO RESILIENCE
The report’s findings that 58% of Filipinos prioritize financial security for healthcare emergencies and 56% aspire to start their own businesses resonate deeply within the national psyche. Filipinos have long been known for their ingenuity and resourcefulness, often rising above challenges with a smile and an entrepreneurial spirit. The segmentation of dreamers into Providers, Trailblazers, Guardians, and Rebuilders offers a nuanced understanding of the diverse motivations across demographics.

BCG’s methodology, combining clustering and sentiment analysis, deserves praise for its rigor. It captures insights from over 1,400 respondents and gives a voice to the rural sector, which speaks of shared optimism and unique struggles that define the Filipino experience. The finding that 68% of Filipinos are optimistic about the coming year, despite significant challenges, underscores a remarkable spirit of hope.

It is quite striking that 58% of Filipinos dream about financial security in case health emergencies arise. It reflects growing consciousness of the risks brought about by unexpected medical costs, thereby being a critical step to advocating for better healthcare access. Programs like Universal Health Care (UHC) and initiatives such as expanded coverage under PhilHealth have shown good promise to ease burden. However, for many Filipinos, these benefits are unattainable. Long waiting times, insufficient hospital capacity, and the high cost of specialty care often leave patients relying on personal savings or informal systems, such as paluwagan (an informal group savings/lending system).

Moreover, rural areas, where access to healthcare facilities is limited, face even steeper challenges. This reality stands in contrast to the optimism reflected in the study. While progress has been made, the persistent gap in healthcare access raises the question: Are Filipinos truly empowered to tackle health emergencies, or are they simply becoming more adept at navigating an inadequate system?

It may also be argued that while financial security ranks as a top aspiration, the study’s optimism about institutional collaboration appears somewhat detached from realities on the ground.

For example, the reliance on informal savings mechanisms such as paluwagan is a reflection of distrust in formal financial systems. This is not a minor systemic hurdle but a systemic issue, compounded by inconsistent service delivery, lack of accessible financial products, and gaps in financial literacy.

However, starting a business is a worthwhile dream, and the question is whether the ecosystem for entrepreneurship is capable enough to foster such dreams. The reality is that credit access is limited, taxes have high compliance costs, and government support is usually lacking. These realities will temper the optimism about micro-entrepreneurship, and there is a growing need to focus on some of the structural challenges in more depth.

THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT: A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD
The dream of entrepreneurship, shared by 56% of respondents, reflects the Filipino people’s inherent creativity and drive for independence. This finding aligns with the visible rise of small businesses across the country, particularly during the pandemic, when Filipinos turned to micro-enterprises as a lifeline. From online sellers to food stalls, entrepreneurship has undeniably fueled economic activity.

Yet, this optimism calls for a reality check. Starting a business in the Philippines is not without significant barriers. The country’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business Index, though improved in recent years, still points to challenges such as bureaucratic red tape, high startup costs, and limited access to financing.

Moreover, most entrepreneurs are informal entrepreneurs. They lack legal protection or financial security. Digital platforms such as GCash and Shopee have enabled small businesses, but many Filipinos do not possess the digital tools or the literacy to succeed in that ecosystem. In celebrating entrepreneurship, we must also talk about the systemic barriers which make it difficult for so many Filipinos to scale up their ventures sustainably.

RURAL OPTIMISM: A MISALIGNMENT?
BCG’s study notes that rural respondents express higher levels of optimism about the future compared to their urban counterparts. This finding is heartening, as it reflects the resilience of rural communities despite limited resources. However, it also raises questions about whether this optimism is rooted in tangible progress or simply in the enduring Filipino ability to find hope in adversity.

In fact, rural Filipinos face tremendous challenges, including limited access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Infrastructure gaps, such as poor internet connectivity, further isolate these communities from the benefits of digital transformation. While optimism is a powerful force, policymakers and businesses must make sure that it translates into concrete improvements in quality of life. Otherwise, this positivity risks being overshadowed by systemic inequities.

INSTITUTIONAL TRUST: A LONG-STANDING CHALLENGE
The study points out a critical gap between Filipinos’ trusting nature in themselves versus that with institutions, wherein more persons turn to self-reliance because of failure attributed to institutions. It’s probably the most realistic result of the report. Institutional mistrust has deep roots because of previous issues such as graft, inefficiency, and varying policy implementation in the country.

This skepticism manifests itself in various ways: from continuing to rely on informal financial systems to being hesitant to approach formal healthcare providers. This is identified as a barrier by the study, yet it also points to an opportunity for institutions to rebuild trust through transparency and accountability. Programs that deliver tangible, reliable benefits — be it in healthcare, education, or financial services — are crucial to bridging the trust gap.

OPTIMISM AND REALISM
Most impressive, perhaps, is that this study shows the Filipino spirit in its most resilient form. The fact that 68% of respondents are optimistic about the coming year really says a lot about how much people want to go beyond their problems. While this optimism should be savored, it should not be taken without an acknowledgment of the problems that do not go away.

To make health security an actuality, we need systemic reforms to enable UHC. To sustain entrepreneurship, we need a facilitative environment that nourishes small businesses at various stages from seed to growth. For the optimism expressed in rural settings to see the light of day into progress, infrastructure, and educational investments are very important.

DREAMS TURNED INTO REALITY
The Filipino Dream offers an important look into the hopes and dreams of Filipinos. However, dreams alone do not create change; this requires collective action to confront barriers and create opportunities involving individuals, institutions, and policymakers.

Filipinos have always been resilient and resourceful. It is time for the systems meant to serve them to reflect the same strength and reliability. Only then can we ensure that the optimism and dreams highlighted in this study become the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous Philippines.

POLICY DEVELOPMENT: FILLING THE GAPS
Targeted policy interventions are needed to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality. The first priority should be reforms to make healthcare more accessible and affordable, as indicated by the top concern identified in the study: investing in preventive care, streamlining public health services, and encouraging private sector innovation in health insurance.

The financial sector needs to re-evaluate regulatory frameworks toward trust and accessibility. In fact, simplification of microfinance and small business loans procedures can encourage savings and borrowing. Furthermore, a national campaign to enhance financial literacy will empower more Filipinos to make informed decisions.

The study’s segmentation of dreamers can be very useful for policymakers. One-size-fits-all programs may not work as well as programs that are targeted to the needs of Providers, Trailblazers, Guardians, and Rebuilders. For example, retirement planning programs might be best suited for rural Guardians, while urban Trailblazers might need skill-building programs to support their entrepreneurial ventures.

RETHINKING BUSINESS STRATEGIES
More important is for businesses themselves to step up. Aligning with this call, in fact, is BCG’s impetus on the empowerment of Filipinos towards more inclusive business practices. Financial houses could consider producing products in response to savings for health and emergency funds, a package that satisfies short-term requirements and guarantees long-term security.

Corporations can play a vital role in helping aspiring entrepreneurs by providing mentorship, market access, and startup capital. Public-private partnerships could be used to help micro-entrepreneurs, especially in underserved regions. For example, e-commerce platforms could partner with local governments to train small business owners in digital marketing, thereby scaling up their operations.

THE NEED FOR FOLLOW-THROUGH RESEARCH
While “The Filipino Dream” provides informative material, it should not be taken as an overarching narrative but rather a jump off point for further scrutiny. Follow-up studies would take a closer look at areas such as understanding more distinctly the barriers women face, or the rural-urban divide in financial preparedness.

Moreover, a longitudinal study that follows the progress of Filipino dreamers over time would provide policymakers and businesses with actionable data. Are Trailblazers achieving financial independence? Have Rebuilders regained stability post-pandemic? These questions demand answers that can only come from sustained research efforts.

A CALL FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION
BCG’s Managing Director, Julian Cua, rightly emphasizes that the Filipino Dream is a collective vision. Realizing this vision will require collaboration across sectors. Policymakers, private corporations, and civil society must align their efforts to create an environment where dreams can flourish.

As we appreciate BCG for shining a light on the aspirations of Filipinos, we should also challenge ourselves to solve the barriers that hold many of us back. We can make these dreams become realities if we invest in policies, frameworks, and initiatives that empower every Filipino.

The resilience and optimism of Filipinos deserve not just recognition but tangible support. Let this study be the starting point for a movement, so financial security, entrepreneurial success, and progress may be in reach for everyone. In fulfilling the Filipino Dream, we uplift not just the individual but the nation itself.

You may download the BCG report here: https://tinyurl.com/26ydvkmf.

 

Dr. Ron F. Jabal, APR, is the CEO of the PAGEONE Group (www.pageonegroup.ph) and the founder of Advocacy Partners Asia (www.advocacy.ph).

ron.jabal@pageone.ph

rfjabal@gmail.com

Meralco franchise renewal bill up for Senate plenary debate

PHILIPPINE STAR/BOY SANTOS

A SENATE BILL that seeks to extend Manila Electric Co.’s (Meralco) franchise for another 25 years is now up for debate in the plenary.

“Meralco has long been a partner in our nation’s progress, but with that partnership comes accountability,” Senator Emmanuel Joel J. Villanueva said in his sponsorship speech for Senate Bill No. 2824 late Wednesday.

“This bill ensures that Meralco continues to meet the needs of our people while preparing for the challenges and opportunities of the future,” he added.

The proposed measure, if passed, will allow Meralco to continue to construct, operate, and maintain its electric distribution systems in areas such as Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Rizal.

Meralco supplies power to at least 7.775 million Filipinos.

Last month, the House of Representatives approved a counterpart bill on final reading. It includes a provision that allows Meralco’s franchise to come into effect four years before its initial concession expires.

Citing the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, Mr. Villanueva emphasized the need for the company to ensure a reliable power supply in a “least cost manner” or at reasonable rates.

Meralco plans to invest about P24 billion over the next five years to enhance its power distribution system by replacing over 45,000 old poles and upgrading power lines, according to the senator.

“We join our countrymen in the hopes that these investments will make Meralco’s power supply even more reliable,” he said.

Meralco’s controlling stakeholder, Beacon Electric Asset Holdings, Inc., is partly owned by PLDT Inc.

Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — John Victor D. Ordoñez

Nonlife insurer TRISCO exits conservatorship, resumes business

BW FILE PHOTO

THE INSURANCE COMMISSION (IC) lifted its cease-and-desist order (CDO) on nonlife insurer Travellers Insurance and Surety Corp. (TRISCO) effective Dec. 4, releasing it from conservatorship and allowing it to resume its operations.

TRISCO was prohibited from conducting business and was placed under conservatorship effective June 3 due to its inability to comply with requirements under the amended Insurance Code.

According to an earlier statement posted on TRISCO’s website, it was stopped from taking on new business due to issues with its net worth and capital.

“During the examination of the 2022 Annual Statements of TRISCO, the Insurance Commission denied a significant amount of investments made by the company, which impaired its net worth. Hence, TRISCO made a complete capital infusion as of May 27,” it said.

“On May 31, TRISCO had a meeting with the Financial Examination Group (FEG) of IC to check on the status of our compliance, and was informed of the documents needed for submission for validation. Thus, on June 3, we submitted the required documents before FEG-Non-Life. Pending action on our compliance, TRISCO was served with the CDO on the same day after an hour.”

The nonlife insurer said in a separate statement following the lifting of the CDO and its release from conservatorship that it “remains strong and steadfast” and is looking to boost its capital position.

“TRISCO stockholders have infused P950 million this 2024, in anticipation of the company’s plan to increase its authorized capital stock to P4 billion by 2025, further boosting its financial stability,” it said.

“With this, the company remains resilient and maintains a positive outlook, viewing this experience as both a challenge and an opportunity to strengthen our operations and reaffirm our commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality insurance products and services to our clients and the public,” it added.

TRISCO said it will enhance its enterprise risk management system through the reinforcement of its finance, risk management and governance committees to ensure that there will be no more regulatory compliance issues moving forward.

The insurer is also set to review and adjust its five-year financial plan, including its investment portfolio, “to guarantee long-term growth and stability,” it said.

TRISCO added that it settled claims worth P23.67 million from June to Nov. 6 while it worked with the IC to expedite the evaluation and compliance processes while it was under conservatorship.

The company was established in 1964 and is involved in the business of fire, marine, bonds, casualty insurance, among others.

Its premiums earned stood at P872.54 million and it booked a net income of P265.21 million last year, based on IC data.

Meanwhile, the nonlife industry’s net premiums written increased by 10.19% to P53.13 billion as of end-September from the same period last year. Its net income grew by 17.17% to P6.41 billion. — AMCS

Gerard Butler goes from action hero to singing Santa in Christmas mash-up

LONDON — Gerard Butler fans are used to seeing the Scottish actor swoop in to save the day in action films like Olympus Has Fallen and Plane. But in his latest movie, the 55-year-old takes on a somewhat different role — a singing, sometimes rapping, Santa Claus.

Mr. Butler voices St. Nick in The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland, an animated musical film adaptation of the children’s picture book by Carys Bexington and Kate Hindley.

The story is a mash-up between the poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas” and Alice in Wonderland and sees St. Nick travelling to Wonderland to deliver a gift and finding himself in trouble with a Christmas-hating Queen of Hearts.

“This is a little fun animated movie, not be the thing I would normally do or be expected to do, but I loved the opportunity to do different performances in different arenas,” Mr. Butler told Reuters.

“The whole family are going to be smiling and I want to be a part of those things.”

The screenplay for the film, which features Bridgerton actor Simone Ashley as Alice and Game of Thrones alumni Emilia Clarke as the Queen of Hearts, is entirely in rhyming couplets.

“To be honest, the whole thing was kind of a challenge so you just throw (it) all in the same box,” said Mr. Butler, who is also known for action epic 300 and the animated How to Train Your Dragon movies.

“I’ve got to sing these crazy songs. I’ve got to do a rap in which I cannot breathe. So there was a lot of challenges but fun ones.”

Asked if he planned to make more Christmas films in the future, Mr. Butler said:

“They are talking about doing a second one of this… I’m not sure if I’m allowed to say, but we already have a story of where does Santa go next, what other fairy tale character (does he meet), could he embark on a mission? And… (from) what I’ve heard so far, it sounds amazing.”

The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland is released on Sky Cinema on Friday. — Reuters

Mexico lower house unanimously approves reforms for app workers

REUTERS

MEXICO CITY — Mexico’s lower house approved a reform that seeks to regulate labor conditions for delivery workers and drivers working for apps such as DiDi, Rappi and Uber by ensuring access to social security and a Christmas bonus, among other benefits.

The general reform passed unanimously with all 462 legislators present voting in favor following a two-hour debate. Deputies then went on to discuss the law’s particular terms before it passes to the Senate, which must vote on any changes.

The ruling Morena party and its allies, who won a landslide victory in the June general election, enjoy a large majority in both houses. They have since sped through a number of reforms proposed under the current and former administrations.

The reform would add Mexico to the ranks of countries such as Chile and Spain that already regulate work through digital platforms, guaranteeing basic labor rights such as a minimum wage and social security.

“We celebrate this great legislative step that combines flexibility and labor rights,” Labor Minister Marath Bolanos said on X after the approval, saying the law will provide certainty for the delivery apps’ business model.

Around 658,000 people are employed across Mexico on digital platforms, according to tax authority data. Of these, some 41% earn over the minimum wage.

Opposition Institutional Revolutionary Party lawmaker Ana Isabel Gonzalez, said the reform should include safeguards protecting from violence against women, such as cracking down on the creation of fake profiles.

The legislation would ensure that workers who earn at least a minimum wage on the app (around $414 per month starting in 2025) have the right to unionize and access to benefits such as social security, accident insurance, pensions, maternity leave, the right to receive company profits and a Christmas bonus.

Workers earning under minimum wage would not have access to all the benefits but be protected in case of work-related accidents.

President Claudia Sheinbaum  sent the proposal to legislators early December and the law was fast-tracked to a plenary vote ahead of the Christmas recess on Dec. 15. — Reuters

The Philippines and India at 75: From distant neighbors to vital Indo-Pacific partners

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo (left) and Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar lead their respective national delegations in the 5th Joint Committee on Bilateral Cooperation in New Delhi on June 29, 2023. — DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

THE Philippines and India share deep cultural and civilizational relations spanning hundreds of years. However, both nations were faced with new strategic challenges following the emergence of the Industrial Revolution, the heightened nature of inter-state competition, and the de-colonization process of the 20th century. Accordingly, with the Philippines and India gaining their independence in 1946 and 1947, respectively, the burgeoning structural dynamics of that period called for an urgent recalibration of foreign and security policies in Manila and New Delhi. As this year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and India, it is crucial to understand and appreciate the evolution of bilateral security ties and the long-term potentials that this partnership possesses.

When Manila and New Delhi established diplomatic relations in November 1949, bilateral ties were immediately put the test by the challenges that stemmed from the unfolding systemic power competition between the United States of America (US) and the Soviet Union. While the Philippines and India had no direct conflict throughout the second half of the 20th century, the potential for any meaningful security collaboration was clouded by the Cold War dynamics, leading Manila and New Delhi to view each other from opposite sides of the ideational fence.

Consequently, the end of the bipolar era, along with the rise of an assertive China, and the overarching US-China power competition in the Western Pacific, provided opportunities for both countries to explore new dimensions in their relationship amid emerging structural realities.

For New Delhi, this willingness was signaled through its Look East Policy of 1991. In 2006, the meeting between the presidents of both countries led to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defense and Security Cooperation to serve as a blueprint for long-term strategic cooperation. However, bilateral relations were still largely confined to issues of low politics, possibly due to Manila’s inward security perception and the limits of India’s willingness to translate its growing material capabilities into a robust and proactive foreign policy in Southeast Asia.

However, as the second decade of the 21st century began, China began pursuing a more overt expansionist approach towards the greater South China Sea and the West Philippine Sea in particular, Against this backdrop, the administration of former President Benigno Aquino III reoriented Manila’s security outlook from internal to territorial defense, with a particular emphasis on maritime security. This shift also allowed Manila to cast the net wider vis-à-vis its cooperation with like-minded Asian states like India. Accordingly, the first Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting was held in 2011, while the first Joint Defense Cooperation Committee (JDCC) was established in 2012.

Such mechanisms were developed to institutionalize and enhance strategic cooperation between India and the Philippines, thus paving the way for joint military activities and arms transfers. However, Manila-New Delhi defense ties remained basic for several reasons, among them, was Manila’s lack of interest to diversify security partnerships away from the US and its extended alliance network and New Delhi’s initial reluctance to involve itself more overtly in the South China Sea, given the potential ramifications for Indian Ocean security.

Nevertheless, these impediments were eventually overcome in 2016. Under the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, Manila sought to radically reconfigure Philippine foreign policy to decrease the momentum in Philippine-US security ties and deepen Philippine-China relations. However, to appease Beijing for economic concessions, Duterte undermined Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. With China’s growing belligerence in Philippine waters, Manila needed to consider partner diversification. Among the benefits of Duterte’s external policy was opening doors for a more robust Philippine-India defense partnership.

This also aligned with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s desire for India to play a more prominent role as an alternative security and development partner in Southeast Asia through the Act East Policy. From 2016-2022, a series of crucial developments took place in the bilateral security partnership, including consecutive high-level visits from both sides, an increase in maritime security activities, and the sale of the BrahMos supersonic missile — making the Philippines the first recipient of this export from India.

These trends indicated Manila’s willingness to incorporate India into its security calculations and operationalize the growing partnership – an intent that was absent in the past decades. More importantly, with the emergence of the Indo-Pacific construct, Manila and New Delhi began to perceive one another as close, like-minded partners in a shared strategic space rather than distant neighbors from separate regions. As a testament to this acknowledgment, Philippine Navy flag officer in command Vice-Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo stated the Philippines’ interest in bolstering maritime security cooperation with India to keep their shared seas safer.

Subsequently, when President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. took office in June 2022, the Philippine-India security partnership was poised to strengthen further. The Marcos Jr. administration repositioned Manila’s foreign policy with the purpose of securing the West Philippine Sea against China’s expansionism. This converges with a rising India that seeks to strengthen the very foundations of that established order. In the past two years alone, several significant developments took place, such as signing an MoU for cooperation between the Philippine and Indian Coast Guards in August 2023, which would pave the way for a more institutionalized maritime security partnership.

Moreover, the fifth meeting of the India-Philippines Joint Defense Cooperation Committee (JDCC) in September was the first time to be co-chaired by the Defense Secretaries, indicating an elevation from the Joint Secretaries level during the 2023 JDCC in Delhi. Additionally, with the Philippines seeking to operationalize its Self-Reliance Defense Posture Act to modernize its Armed Forces, India has expressed support for capacity-building cooperation in the defense industry. Under the Modi Government, India has pursued its vision for “Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” or self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This opens pathways for possible joint production based on shared goals and interests in the region. Furthermore, both sides are also in talks to explore more avenues for arms trade and procurement amid the tumultuous landscape in the Indo-Pacific.

In addition, New Delhi has also become more vocal in supporting the Philippines’ legitimate position on the West Philippine Sea. This was illustrated when External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar called for adherence to the 2016 Arbitral Ruling during his meeting with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo in July 2023. Moreover, During Mr. Jaishankar’s meeting with President Marcos Jr. in Manila in March, he stated India’s genuine intent to work with the Philippines to secure the seas based on international law. In doing so, the Indian Minister stated, “So if you want a country which actually says it will accept the judgment even if it goes against us, we are actually a natural candidate. So, we can be on your ship.”

Therefore, the Philippines and India have significantly enhanced the scope and depth of their bilateral security partnership throughout the years. In the past, relations were primarily confined to low politics, while functional defense cooperation barely figured in the strategic lexicon of both states. However, Manila and New Delhi overcame this cloud of unawareness. Given the uncertain future of regional geopolitics, it will be crucial for both partners to consistently explore new ways to enhance the function of their partnership according to the emerging challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

 

Don Mclain Gill is a Manila-based geopolitical analyst, author, and lecturer at the Department of International Studies, De La Salle University, Manila.

Canadian Mining firm B2Gold plans to expand operations in PHL — DTI

B2GOLD.COM

CANADIAN gold mining company B2Gold Corp. plans to expand its operations in the Philippines, according to the Trade department.

In a statement, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said that it met with officials of B2Gold and its local partner, Filminera Resources Corp., to discuss B2Gold’s plans to expand in the Philippines and its project in Aroroy, Masbate.

“B2Gold’s decision to expand its operations here reflects the confidence that global investors have in the robust policies, strategic reforms, and highly skilled workforce,” said DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque.

“We warmly welcome this development as it highlights the Philippines’ commitment to building partnerships that promote sustainable economic growth and inclusive regional development,” she added.

The company is currently operating a gold mine in Masbate, which is about to reach its end of life. The company acquired its stake in the Masbate mine through a merger with CGA Mining Ltd. back in 2013.

“In mining, for you to determine if you can continue mining and expand or look for additional sites to mine, you need to have extensive research and analysis,” said Mario C. Tani, commercial counselor and trade commissioner at the Philippine Consulate General of Toronto, Canada, in a Viber message on Thursday.

“Usually, this entails a lot of hiring of local geologists and spending,” he added.

According to the Trade department, the opening of the company’s exploration office was formally announced during the Team Canada Trade Mission last week.

B2Gold has cited the country’s strategic location and skilled workers as among the reasons for the company’s success in the Philippines, as well as six consecutive years of operation without workplace injuries or accidents.

“B2Gold has invested in expanding skills and livelihood training programs for local residents while providing employment to nearly 2,000 direct and contract workers,” the DTI said.

“These efforts have contributed to Aroroy’s development from a fourth-class to a first-class municipality,” it added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile

FWD Life Philippines, Security Bank extend bancassurance partnership

Officials of FWD Life Insurance Corp. and Security Bank Corp. were present at the contract signing for the extension of their bancassurance deal.

FWD LIFE Insurance Corp. (FWD Life Philippines) and Security Bank Corp. have extended their bancassurance partnership amid a positive outlook for the insurance industry.

The companies’ partnership began in October 2014.

“After a decade of trust, shared values, and mutual commitment to empower Filipinos to achieve their financial aspirations, we are continuing our partnership with Security Bank and remain dedicated to delivering accessible consumer-focused products. We will push reshaping the industry by changing the way people feel about insurance,” FWD Group Managing Director Binayak Dutta said in a statement on Thursday

FWD Life Philippines is banking on the country’s rising income per capita, digital- and internet-literate population, and the large underserved market for growth.

According to data from the Insurance Commission, insurance penetration was at 1.74% as of the third quarter.

“This renewed partnership with Security Bank is a significant step in our shared goal of nation-building. Combining our expertise in insurance with Security Bank’s trusted banking services, we hope to empower more Filipinos to achieve financial independence and to celebrate living the best way they know how,” FWD Life Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Antonio Manuel “Jumbing” G. De Rosas said.

“Our partnership with FWD Life Insurance has always gone beyond business. It is a bond rooted in our shared vision of empowering Filipinos with the tools and protection to lead worry-free, fulfilling lives. Together, we have not only introduced innovations but also touched lives — helping families build a stronger future for themselves and the generations to come,” Security Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Sanjiv Vohra said.

FWD Life Philippines booked a premium income of P24.3 billion in 2023, ranking fourth in the sector. Its net income was at P1.22 billion.

Meanwhile, Security Bank’s net income rose by 13.58% year on year to P3.01 billion in the third quarter, bringing its nine-month net profit to P8.45 billion, up by 11.62% from a year ago. — A.M.C. Sy

The scourge of celebrities in politics

With elections looming in 2025, this writer is amazed at the audacity of celebrities and movie/TV personalities who have signified their intent to run for senator position, no less. The problem is that as a people, we tolerate and even vote these people into office. Because these celebrities calculate good probabilities of winning, they run the course with confidence, even if lacking the necessary competence. One wonders if the real reason for running for office is not public service but some other agenda.

Competence refers to the ability to perform a task successfully due to skills, knowledge and experience, while confidence is the belief in one’s abilities to perform effectively. Ideally, confidence should stem from genuine competence, creating a positive feedback loop. But confidence without competence, if tolerated, can spell disaster for the nation.

Confidence without competence — sometimes referred to as the Dunning-Kruger Effect — occurs when individuals overestimate their abilities despite lacking the necessary skills. David Dunning and Justin Kruger’s 1999 study demonstrated that people with low competence in specific areas often fail to recognize their deficiencies, leading them to display unwarranted confidence. For example, in their experiments, participants with the lowest scores in logic, grammar, and humor rated their performance as above average, significantly overestimating their abilities.

Overconfidence can manifest in various harmful ways, including poor decision-making, risk-taking, and alienation of others. Research by Barber and Odean (2001) on financial markets found that overconfident investors traded excessively, leading to subpar returns. Their confidence in their judgment blinded them to the risks and lead to irrational behavior.

This phenomenon can have real-world implications. For instance, in medicine, healthcare providers who overestimate their abilities may misdiagnose a condition, putting a patient’s life at risk. In the political arena, leaders lacking expertise may struggle to address complex issues, resulting in ineffective policy-making and governance. Decision-making may prioritize popularity and public appeal over long-term societal benefits. This can exacerbate problems such as corruption, inefficiency, and policy inconsistency.

In extreme cases, overconfidence can erode trust and damage reputations when promises or claims fail to materialize. The effects of overconfidence are particularly troubling in the high stakes environment of politics and good governance. The inability of such leaders to perform can tarnish the image of democratic institutions, reducing public trust. Critical sectors like the economy, education and healthcare may face neglect or mismanagement.

Is this phenomenon as sign of weakness in our democratic system? Democracy, particularly in its electoral form, often rewards visibility and emotional connection rather than competence and experience. Modern democracies are heavily influenced by media platforms where celebrities dominate the narrative due to their visibility. Voters who lack the tools or awareness to evaluate candidates based on their qualifications are led to choose based on personality or fame. With critical thinking out of the way, name recall and reliance on superficial narratives dominate the landscape.

The way out of this vicious cycle of putting in position incompetent and over-confident personalities is for our people to wake up, realize the big mistake and make the correct choice. This starts by reducing the glamour of politics that makes it seem as if it is a convenient career move. Media and civil society should critically evaluate and publicize the consequences of incompetence in governance. Expose the failures. Deter opportunistic entrants. Media outlets should avoid giving disproportionate attention to celebrity candidates based on their fame. It is time to focus on substance.

But the root cause must be addressed, and this refers to the standards for political candidacy. Our legitimate lawmakers must introduce basic educational, professional or public service aptitude tests or competency examinations to deter unqualified individuals. This is a difficult ask, but it is a procedure worthy of study and consideration. Applicants to corporations and other formal organizations require some pre-qualification. But in the Philippines, it is easier to apply to be a senatorial candidate, provided one has the name and the money.

The biggest hurdle remains voter education and awareness. For as long as our electorate allows fame and name to be the primary consideration for election choice, this rut will remain. Civic education should start in school and with the masses to introduce critical thinking and in-depth introspection for their candidate choices.

Discouraging incompetent celebrities from our political landscape requires systemic reforms, voter education and shifts in perspective. Society should create an environment where political participation is guided by genuine public service rather than popularity alone. We can all do our share, starting with our individual decisions to not elect these celebrity candidates while explaining in our small circles why this makes sense. It is high time we restore the quality, prestige and honor of our upper chamber to assure well-crafted laws for the country’s development.

The views expressed herein are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of his office as well as FINEX.

 

Benel Dela Paz Lagua was previously EVP and chief development officer at the Development Bank of the Philippines.  He is an active FINEX member and an advocate of risk-based lending for SMEs. Today, he is independent director in progressive banks and in some NGOs.

Fujii Kaze proves J-pop can fill arenas in Manila

By Brontë H. Lacsamana, Reporter

Concert Review
Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024
Dec. 10
Mall of Asia Arena

THE popularity of Fujii Kaze shows that Japanese music — besides that of animé and pop idol groups — has found a place in other countries. A 27-year-old singer-songwriter and pianist known for catchy hooks and R&B and jazz inflections, Mr. Fujii reached global fame when his 2020 song “Shinunoga E-Wa” went viral on TikTok early last year.

Aside from this seemingly lucky break, the rest of his music spoke for itself. Singles like “Kirari” from 2021 and the more recent “Michiteyuku” have charted on Billboard’s Global Top 200.

It is in this context that the Best of Fujii Kaze 2020-2024 Asia Tour came about, consisting of performances in arenas and stadiums in eight Asian cities: Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Taipei, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Manila, and Seoul.

The Manila leg, being the penultimate one, was held at the Mall of Asia Arena, which has a seating capacity of 15,000. On Dec. 10, a random Tuesday night, a decently sized crowd filled the venue — not to the brim, but enough to say that there is an audience for J-pop in the Philippines.

GETTING IN THE GROOVE
For this tour, Fujii Kaze was joined by Japanese R&B artist TAIKING on guitar, Kobayashi Naoki on bass, Sabi Norihide on drums, and Japanese music producer Yaffle on keyboards. Respected musicians in their own right back in Japan, their combined talent truly elevated Mr. Fujii’s concert.

He started off with songs from his 2020 album HELP EVER HURT NEVER, which was great for this writer. Being familiar with that album thanks to an extreme J-pop phase during the COVID-19 pandemic, all those songs felt as comforting as they were back in that uncertain time in life.

“Yasashisa (Kindness)” saw Mr. Fujii singing the heartfelt song with a strong voice, his hood over his head concealing his face.

Then, he sat down for the groovy “Nan-Nan (What Is It?),” a song that made waves in Japan during its release in 2019 for being sung in the artist’s native Okayama dialect. This song was my introduction to Fujii Kaze, so it is a favorite, and it’s a tune that’s impossible not to dance to. An awesome moment was his smooth piano playing and transition to the next song, “Mo-Eh-Wa (It’s Enough),” which also has an infectious rhythm.

Mr. Fujii’s dance moves emerged in “Kiri Ga Naikara (Because It’s Endless),” with a grittier yet still groovy feel. From then on, with back-up dancers blending well with the performances and the stage lighting bathing the arena in deep colors (red for “Hedemo Ne-Yo” and blue for “Seishun Sick,” for example), the atmosphere of the entire show really shifted to match each song.

Perhaps the highlight of the choreography was during “Hana (Flower),” with Mr. Fujii and his backup dancers coming out in floral colors and hyping up the crowd for the lighthearted tune. The stage lighting was beautiful here, giving off a rainbow of its own as well.

“Garden” brought out the enthusiasm of the Kazetarians (the term for Fujii Kaze’s fanbase). Before the concert, core members of their group roamed the stands and the floor below, giving out green stickers to audience members. They explained that by placing the sticker over their phone’s flashlight, the phone would emit a bright green light during the song.

When “Garden” started playing, most of the arena was filled with the green lights from the crowd’s phones, essentially making the venue look like a garden. The stunt was a success and a touching sight to behold.

Another high point in terms of choreography was “Workin’ Hard,” which had really intense bass drops and dance breaks that Mr. Fujii and his dancers did with such energy. Perhaps the only thing that would have made it better would be to not have the music video playing behind it, because the video’s goofy tone — with Fujii Kaze dancing with cleaning equipment — didn’t match the intensity of what was going on onstage.

Vocally, “Kirari” and “Tabiji (Journey)” were pleasant to listen to, the audience clapping along in parts as Mr. Fujii rode on the rhythm of the songs and hit his high notes. But his steady playing on the piano during “Michiteyuku (Overflowing)” as the lights turned a starlit blue and filled the arena with a wondrous vibe, was easily a crowd favorite.

FOR FILIPINOS
Fujii Kaze’s hit “Shinunoga E-Wa (I’d Rather Die)” began with a memorable introduction — he played the notes to Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing,” a popular karaoke tune among Filipinos — and sure enough, the crowd erupted in song. Launching into the hit, the audience was charmed, many standing up by this point to sway to the music.

“Matsuri (Festival)” closed the concert — but it was also not straightforward. In previous stops in the tour, keyboardist Yaffle would start with a classic or traditional song from the country they were performing in before segueing to Fujii Kaze’s song. For the Philippine leg, the chosen song was “Manila” by Hotdog, causing fans to again sing along or cheer.

The theatrics of “Matsuri (Festival),” with the other performers onstage giving the song the bravado it is known for, made it a highlight. The show concluded triumphantly, the arena filled with the clapping and screaming of fans.

Of course, there was an encore — but it turns out that Manila was only the second city he graced with one, the first being Jakarta (perhaps fans from other countries lacked Filipinos’ and Indonesians’ energy). He serenaded the audience with an acapella version of “Sayonara Baby,” getting carried away in his ad libs towards the end as the crowd went wild.

The Filipinos that night had infectious enthusiasm. Those familiar with various fanbases can trace a crossover of sorts with K-pop, since Fujii Kaze has a handsome image, with music that lies squarely in pop and ranges from emotional to upbeat, not to mention the TikTok virality. There was also fan merch sold at the arena, like stickers and headbands with the artist’s face.

Notably, there were a lot of foreigners at the concert. The main group were Japanese nationals, who flew from their home to see what Mr. Fujii’s show is like elsewhere. But there were also a lot of audience members from different parts of the world, ranging from the United States to Africa to nearby Asian countries.

While not as explosively profitable among Filipinos as Korean Hallyu or big-name Western artists, music tourism centered on Japanese musicians does have a place in the Philippines every now and then, and Fujii Kaze’s concert was proof of it.

The employment certificate: Issues and answers

I’m a human resource (HR) manager puzzled by constant complaints on social media about the delay in the issuance of their certificate of employment (CoE), or even the rejection of their request by management. Why are employers doing this? — Blue Light.

This issue has been going on for years despite the issuance of the Labor Department of Labor Advisory No. 06 Series of 2020, which requires employers to issue a CoE within three days from the date of a worker’s request. The only exception is when an existing Collective Bargaining Agreement requires that its release be shorter than three days.

While the advisory does not specify if it’s to be done verbally or in writing, employees should do it formally so that they can establish proof of their request. Failure on the part of any employer to comply is grounds for legal action. The trouble is the amount of time, money, and effort required of an aggrieved employee to force an employer to issue a CoE.

​Generally, workers have no choice but to wait until their patience wears thin or an employer gives in, whichever comes first.

Usually, a CoE is requested by workers who are planning to move to another organization. It proves a worker’s employment history, status, job title, and relevant compensation details.

Those who are unable to provide a CoE run the risk of not getting a new job. So, how do workers try to trick unprincipled employers into issuing a CoE? Some workers claim they need it for a bank loan, buy a car or motorcycle in installments, or apply for a foreign visa.

That’s why some organizations insist on knowing the purpose of a CoE so they can input it as part of the contents, like specifically addressing it to a bank, product dealer, or utility company.

COE ELEMENTS
If you’re an employee, you might think such conditions are rigid and unreasonable. If an employee is no longer interested to continue working for a company, then why would an employer make it difficult for them? One reason is that they don’t like ugly surprises. They want reasonable lead time to appoint a replacement.

That’s why they’re asking you to telegraph your intentions so they can predict if you might be resigning. It is improper to ask directly. Besides, there are many ways to predict if employees are no longer interested in pursuing a long-term relationship with the company.

One indicator is frequent absenteeism and habitual tardiness. Another sign is poor productivity or substandard work. These are clear warnings and yet some employers continue to remain blind by making it difficult to issue a CoE. Many of them are assisted by incompetent HR managers known for their “yes” mentality and unquestioning attitude even if the circumstances are illegal, unethical and immoral.

Based on my experience, the CoE should contain the following information, unless the organization offers a self-service HR kiosk where employees can download an on-the-spot CoE or its equivalent document. If not, the HR department can issue a CoE manually:

One, issue a basic and generic CoE. This avoids undue conflict and at the same time fast-tracks the issuance of the document, regardless of its purpose. Then in the last paragraph include a statement that reads: “This certificate of employment is being issued for whatever legal purpose it may serve the above-named employee.”

Two, specify the worker’s full name and complete home address. The employee’s full name (not nickname) must be the same name as that indicated on the birth certificate. This avoids potential mistakes when the name is different from the worker’s passport or other documents. Also, the complete last known home address must be included. If the employee has changed address, request them to submit an update.

Three, the CoE must contain only basic information. These include the inclusive dates of employment — If the worker is currently employed, simply say “to date.” It must be followed by the employee’s job title, a brief statement about their job, and their employment status. If requested by the employee, the salary package may be indicated to include base pay, allowances, and fringe benefits.

Four, the CoE’s signatory must include anyone from HR. However, that person must be at least one pay grade higher than the employee being certified. Otherwise, the HR department head may sign the CoE of other department heads, regardless of their job title, including members of the senior management team.

A caveat. The issuance of a CoE is an important document for any worker. HR must avoid holding the document hostage, which runs the risk of destroying work relations. The HR profession does not deal with inanimate objects. It deals with human beings, many of which have feelings, values, and attitudes.

No HR manager can succeed if they’re poor in this basic skill.

 

Bring Rey Elbo’s leadership program called “Superior Subordinate Supervision” to your teams. Contact him on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or e-mail elbonomics@gmail.com or via https://reyelbo.com

Gerasimov and China’s ‘Three Warfares’

FRANK SINATRA in The Manchurian Candidate (1962)

The Manchurian Candidate was a 1959 novel by Richard Condon (later made into a classic movie with Frank Sinatra) that involved a communist conspiracy to install an unwitting puppet of theirs in the White House as an elected president. The premise, obviously, is decades old and yet one wonders if real life has finally overtaken fiction.

Something that has been going around national security circles for some time now is the so-called “Gerasimov Doctrine,” ostensibly a military doctrine which calls for “a 4:1 ratio of non-military to military action.” The doctrine emphasizes “the importance of controlling the information space and the real-time coordination of all aspects of a campaign, in addition to the use of targeted strikes deep in enemy territory and the destruction of critical civilian as well as military infrastructure” (see Wikipedia).

Now seen as a reimagining of “unconventional warfare” or “nonlinear” warfare (as per Russian military terminology), the point is “to achieve the desired strategic and geopolitical results, using a wide toolbox of non-military methods and means: explicit and covert diplomacy, economic pressure, winning the sympathy of the local population, etc.”

In short, to win a war without bloodshed, without the necessity of launching military forces in direct combat with the armed might of another country. If one can actually take over another country, using that country’s media, erroneous beliefs about free expression, weakened national character, immature voter base, so that one can actually install various public officials in key government offices or even a Head of State completely beholden to you, then such is a victory achieved at far less cost and with greater resource efficiency.

There is doubt, of course, about the Gerasimov Doctrine, named after “Russia’s Chief of the General Staff, General Valery Gerasimov… and is a supposed plan for combined psychological, political, subversive, and military operations to destabilize the West. Or perhaps just covert operations and disinformation, without the shooting. Or maybe the aim is to destroy the whole architecture of the global order. The very confusion about what exactly this ‘doctrine’ entails betrays the basic point: it doesn’t exist.”

So writes British historian and security expert Mark Galeotti. In essence, the “doctrine” was based on “cunning Western — American — campaigns of covert destabilization.” In other words, when Gerasimov talked of a “blurring of the lines between the states of war and peace” in which “the role of non-military means of achieving political and strategic goals has grown, and, in many cases, exceeded the power of force of weapons in their effectiveness,” he was merely recognizing a new Western way of war (“The Gerasimov Doctrine,” Berlin Policy Journal, May/June 2020).

Nevertheless, there are “two Chinese military theorists, Qiao Liang and Wang Xiangsui, whose Unrestricted Warfare, published in 1999, who first asked the very same questions and presaged Gerasimov by more than 10 years.” For them, the “world had entered into a new era of ‘unrestricted warfare,’ one in which the network hacker, financial and trade transactions (or lack thereof), and the media have all become weapons of modern war.”

Thus, the “future battlefield” is an “extended domain,” not a “battlefield where lethality took precedence, but one in which the goal of any nation-state (or sub-state actors) is to ‘paralyze and to undermine the enemy’ by degrading the will of its people and the state to wage an armed conflict in the first place. The ‘extended domain’ is what we today refer to as cyberspace, but which they referred to as the electromagnetic spectrum. The modern warriors are the banks, and anybody whom the state can enlist or coerce to use to advance the state’s self-interest (think of all Chinese companies, whatever their public declarations of independence.) Not to be overlooked is the media or as they write ‘The information-sharing world creates the media as an integral and immediate part of war’” (“The Chinese Roots of Hybrid Warfare,” Mark Thomas, Center for European Policy Analysis, August 2022).

Notably, around 2003, China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) adopted a strategic framework known as the “Three Warfares”: psychological, media, and legal. In its 2011 annual report to Congress on military and security developments in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Department of Defense defined each area:

• Psychological Warfare seeks to undermine an enemy’s ability to conduct combat operations aimed at deterring, shocking, and demoralizing enemy military personnel and supporting civilian populations.

• Media Warfare is aimed at influencing domestic and international public opinion to build support for China’s military actions and dissuade an adversary from pursuing actions contrary to China’s interests.

• Legal Warfare uses international and domestic law to claim the high ground or assert Chinese interests. It can be employed to hamstring an adversary’s operational freedom and shape the operational space. Legal warfare is also intended to build international support and manage possible political repercussions of China’s military actions. China has attempted to employ legal warfare in the maritime domain and in international airspace in pursuit of a security buffer zone. (“China’s Three Information Warfares,” US Naval Institute, Major Morgan Martin, US Army, March 2021).

What’s also further interesting here is that the “Three Warfares” doctrine arises partly out of an insecurity: “The PLA spends a lot of energy examining its capabilities against its objectives and competitors, and they have been found wanting,” concluding that “there are big gaps between the level of our military modernization compared to the requirements for national security. [Thus], if the PLA cannot be relied upon to fend off military threats, then those threats must be preempted in the minds of foreign policymakers who might choose to compete, contain, or attack China.” (“China’s ‘Three Warfares’ in perspective,” Peter Mattis, https://warontherocks.com, January 2018).

The implications of such are, of course, truly disconcerting. Imagine a country in conflict with China and the latter invested humongous amounts to build troll armies to influence national discourse; co-opted local commentators by inviting them to Beijing, wining and dining them, providing substantial fees, making them eager to spread Chinese propaganda; subverted mainstream news media so that only China friendly news is reported and contrary information labeled “Sinophobic”; persuaded that country’s government to avail of large loans from China ostensibly for public works and other economic “growth” programs; urged the allowing of Chinese investments (such as online gambling) that could serve as entry points for criminal or espionage activities; all the foregoing to weaken that country’s resolve to defend its sovereignty; and, finally, helped elect as Head of State an individual stupidly enamored and devoted to China, whose idea of foreign policy is based on personal likes and dislikes, mood, and insecurities.

Then you have an instance of China having won a conflict, in fact invaded another country, without even having fired a single shot.

Thank God, of course, that such a thing never happened.

 

Jemy Gatdula is a lawyer specializing in international economic law and the law of armed conflict, as well as constitutional philosophy and jurisprudence.

https://www.facebook.com/jigatdula/

Twitter  @jemygatdula

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