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The Middle East is once again at the center of global tension. On my DWAR Abante Radio WALANG ATRASAN program, I interviewed defense analyst Prof. Roland Simbulan, Chair of the Center for People’s Empowerment in Governance (CENPEG). He warned that the latest US–Israeli strikes on Iran could spiral into a wider conflict with far-reaching consequences.…
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Vice President Sara Duterte continues to lead the nation’s trust ratings, securing 55 percent in the latest February 2026 survey. She also garnered a 48 percent satisfaction rating for her performance as Vice President, underscoring strong public approval as she formally enters the presidential race. Support for Duterte remains anchored in Mindanao and the Visayas,…
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By Benjie Alejandro Abante Radyo – Walang Atrasan Defense analyst and CENPEG chairperson Professor Roland Simbulan has raised concern over the intensifying rhetoric between China and the Philippines, noting that Beijing’s diplomatic posture has shifted from passive defense to a more assertive, offensive approach. Speaking on Walang Atrasan, Simbulan pointed to the recent controversy surrounding…
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Benjie Alejandro In recent weeks, headlines have focused on the visit of Japan’s Foreign Minister to Manila, culminating in the signing of the Acquisition and Cross‑Servicing Agreement (ACSA between the Philippines and Japan. On paper, the agreement promises deeper cooperation in logistics, training, and disaster response. Yet behind the signatures and smiles lies a heavier…
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Benjie Alejandro President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s renewed commitment to educational reform, highlighted during the submission of the EDCOM II Final Report, signals both continuity and ambition. The administration’s emphasis on aligning reforms with expert recommendations and launching the National Education and Workforce Development Plan (NatPlan 2026–2035) reflects a desire to institutionalize long-term strategies rather…
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Benjie Alejandro Amid the continuing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, the issue flared up once again following strong statements from the Chinese Embassy. According to their spokesperson, they are prepared to leave if their ambassador and entire media team are declared persona non grata. They further added that even if the embassy were shut…
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Benjie Alejandro My dear readers, the Department of Agriculture has temporarily suspended the acceptance of new applications for the reclassification of agricultural lands. At first glance, this seems like good news: it shows that the government is serious about protecting our farmlands. But if we look closer, isn’t it doubtful whether this is truly a…
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Benjie Alejandro As the war in Ukraine drags on, Kyiv has been pushing harder to gain entry into ASEAN as a sectoral partner. It is an ambitious move, especially with its stated goal of reaching $5 billion in trade by 2026. Yet the reality is sobering. Ukraine’s economy is struggling, and its military burden grows…
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By Benjie Alejandro Fellow readers, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently joked after being hospitalized, saying: “Rumors of my death are highly exaggerated.” Lighthearted as the remark may be, the message is clear: even the President gets tired, falls ill, and needs rest. Humanity does not exempt anyone, not even those in the highest office of…
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A pressing question now looms over the issue of smuggling: How can we truly stamp out illegal trade when high-ranking government officials—particularly within the security forces—are the very ones shielding it? Is it not a grave insult to the public that those entrusted with our safety have instead become guardians of smugglers? If reports are…
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The Bench Files 