Philippines

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has firmly rejected a proposal to reduce tariffs on imported rice, a decision arrived at in conjunction with other key officials including the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary, Arsenio Balisacan. The proposal aimed to temporarily lower the existing 35% rice import tariff rates to 0% or at most, 10%. This move was seen as a measure to control the surge in rice prices, however, it was met with substantial opposition from various agricultural groups. Several agricultural entities vehemently opposed the proposed tariff reduction, arguing that it would severely harm local farmers while disproportionately benefiting importers. In their view, the majority of imports consist of premium-grade rice, targeted towards affluent consumers. Therefore, lowering tariffs would not have a significant impact on the economically challenged, who are often the most affected by price surges. Global...

In the face of rising air pollution levels, a coalition of sustainable transport advocates, known as the Move As One Coalition, has called for urgent action. The recent heavy smog that enveloped Metro Manila underscores the adverse effects of vehicular emissions, with the coalition labeling vehicles as the primary cause of the region's toxic air. The coalition proposes active forms of mobility and improved public transportation systems as solutions to mitigate the harmful impact of air pollution.As part of their proposed solutions, the Move As One Coalition emphasizes the importance of constructing protected bike lanes and safe pathways. Additionally, they advocate for improvements in the public health system. These measures aim to lessen the detrimental effects of toxic air on both the population and the economy. The Move As One Coalition proposes the prioritisation of cycling and a more efficient public transport syst...