Philippine Developmental Paradox

In-person event organised as part of the Current Dynamics in Southeast Asia seminar.

Programme :

Opening by Elsa Lafaye de Micheaux (CASE-Inalco)

Introduction and Chair: Jafar Suryomenggolo

14.00-15.30:

Yusuke Takagi (GRIPS, Tokyo/ IFRAE-Inalco):

The Philippines in Regions: From “Latin Asia” to the Indo-Pacific

The Philippines is often characterized as an outlier in the region where it is geographically located. In the 1990s, the World Bank celebrated the miraculous economic growth with minimum inequality; the Philippines was called a “sick man of Asia.” While some may accuse crony capitalism of being the cause of “sickness,” others may claim that neo-liberal reform resulted in an “anti-developmental state.” The former focuses on domestic factors, while the latter highlights the influence of globalization. Against this backdrop, this research proposes that we should bring the regional context back in to have a clearer picture of the Philippine political economy. By regional context, however, it does not take geography for granted. Rather, this research argues that the various public policies have shaped a specific regional context in which the Philippines has been embedded.

Discussant: Elisabeth Luquin (Inalco).

15.30-16.00:

Raimondo Neironi (University of Rome, Tor Vergata): From Father to Son: Marcos, Clans and Politics in the Philippines Today
The recent political rift between Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte-Carpio has once again drawn attention to the enduring significance of political dynasties in the Philippines. Rooted in the colonial structures established under Spanish rule and subsequently reinforced during the American colonial period, political families have remained central actors in the country’s political landscape. While this phenomenon can be approached from multiple perspectives, this presentation focuses on the historical and institutional factors that have enabled political dynasties to preserve their influence, wealth, and power across generations. Particular attention will be devoted to the mechanisms through which these families maintain their dominance, including extensive electoral networks, control over local political structures, corruption and, in some instances, the use of coercion and violence. By examining both the historical foundations and contemporary manifestations of dynastic politics, this presentation seeks to assess the implications of this enduring phenomenon for Philippine democracy and society.

Scientific coordinator: David Camroux (CERI-Sciences Po / CNRS)