Philippines Roundup: Cabinet revamp, US tariffs, President’s alleged drug use

Corruption scandal triggers Cabinet shake-up

Two senior Philippine officials have resigned after being linked to a major corruption probe into missing infrastructure funds, escalating the crisis facing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s administration. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman stepped down as investigations widened into billions allegedly diverted from anti-flood projects. The scandal has triggered mass protests, with hundreds of thousands rallying in Manila. Politician Zaldy Co, now abroad, has accused Marcos of pushing for suspicious budget increases, though the claims remain unverified. Several officials have already been charged as inquiries continue into “ghost” public works and substandard or non-existent flood control projects.

Agri exports seen to gain from latest US tariff exemptions

Philippine agricultural exports are expected to gain a boost after the United States removed its 19 percent tariff on a range of products under an executive order issued on November 14. Coconut-based goods, tropical fruit juices, cocoa, bananas, oranges, spices and some semiconductor items are now exempt, covering an estimated $1 billion worth of Philippine agri-exports in 2024. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the move will strengthen export competitiveness, protect jobs and enhance economic stability, adding that a large share of shipments to the US is now free of reciprocal tariffs.

President Marcos declares $6.5 million in wealth

The declared wealth of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has risen steadily since he took office, according to their 2022–2024 SALNs obtained by local paper The STAR. Their net worth increased from P329.23 million upon assuming the presidency to P389.36 million by end-2024. The latest filing shows P247.33 million in real properties and P42.03 million in personal assets. The growth was driven by higher cash holdings, expanded money market investments, and new property acquisitions, including two houses in La Union worth a combined P86.5 million and several agricultural lots in Ilocos Norte. Jewellery, vehicles and paintings also increased in value. The couple declared zero liabilities throughout the three-year period. 

Philippines falls in climate policy, mitigation rankings

The Philippines has dropped from 7th to 19th in the latest Climate Change Performance Index, slipping from a high to a medium performer. It remains the only Southeast Asian country in the top 20, ranking above the EU, France, Germany and India. The fall is largely due to weak climate policy, slow progress on renewable energy, and the government’s failure to submit updated climate targets ahead of COP30 in Brazil. Civil society groups say the delay reflects political shortcomings, while experts warn Manila still lacks a net-zero pathway and a plan to phase out fossil fuels. The index notes continued reliance on liquefied natural gas despite signs of coal decline. Critics add that corruption and frequent disasters hinder more ambitious climate action.

President Marcos denies sister’s accusation of drug use fanning family feud

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has rejected fresh accusations by his sister, Senator Imee Marcos, that he has a long-term cocaine habit. The claims emerged as the country faces mass protests over corruption. Speaking at a Manila rally, the senator alleged his supposed drug use dated back to their father’s rule and had fuelled poor governance, but provided no evidence. The presidential palace dismissed the remarks as unfounded and previously disproven, citing past negative drug tests. Imee also accused the president’s family of drug use, while the palace criticised her for overlooking similar controversies involving the Dutertes, who deny wrongdoing.