The Agreement Under Scrutiny The so-called “Gentleman’s Agreement” made during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s tenure with China has come under intense scrutiny. This informal deal, which reportedly enjoined China to observe the status quo in the disputed South China Sea waters, is now a subject of debate. Pros: A Practical Approach to Diplomacy? Proponents of the agreement argue that it …

The Economic Resurgence Post-Pandemic As Singapore emerges from the economic shadow of the pandemic, the nation is witnessing a significant uptick in business activity. This resurgence is a key driver behind the increased demand for premium office spaces. A Tight Market: Supply vs. Demand With 2.9 million sq ft of new office space entering the market in 2024, one might …

A Display of Global Partnership President Joe Biden’s recent White House summit with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has underscored the robust alliance between the United States and Japan. The leaders showcased a united front, particularly in their joint defense cooperation to deter an assertive China. Strategic Defense and Economic Cooperation The summit was a platform for about 70 agreements …

Anticipation Builds for the Clown Prince of Crime’s Return The entertainment world is abuzz with the imminent release of the “Joker 2” trailer. Following the original film’s critical acclaim and box office triumph, the sequel is one of the most highly anticipated films in recent memory. Movie Date: Mark Your Calendars “Joker 2” is slated for release in the fall, …

The political landscape of the Philippines has been rocked by the recent unearthing of a covert agreement between former President Rodrigo Duterte and the Chinese government. This pact, shrouded in secrecy until now, was purportedly signed under the cover of darkness and away from the prying eyes of the public and the international community. National Sovereignty at Stake The contents …

The Philippines’ transportation sector is facing a pivotal decision: whether to ban electric vehicles (EVs). This proposal has ignited a nationwide debate, with strong opinions emerging on both sides. Here, we explore the multifaceted arguments surrounding this issue. The Case for the Ban Environmental Impact Critics of EVs often cite the environmental cost of producing these vehicles, especially the mining …

As the crescent moon heralds the end of Ramadan, Indonesia witnesses an unprecedented movement of people. This year’s Eid al-Fitr marks not just the culmination of a holy month but also a record-breaking exodus as millions embark on their journey home. The Great Migration Begins The annual tradition of “mudik” sees a mass migration unparalleled in scale. Indonesians from all …

As South Korea prepared for its parliamentary elections, North Korea’s state-controlled media unleashed a scathing attack on President Yoon Suk Yeol, labeling him a “fascist dictator” and “warmonger.” This editorial seeks to understand the motivations behind Pyongyang’s harsh rhetoric at such a critical juncture. Timing and Tensions The timing of North Korea’s attack, on the eve of South Korea’s elections, …

Malaysia’s recent surge in efforts to restrict social media content has sparked a complex debate about the balance between maintaining public order and upholding freedom of expression. This editorial delves into the multifaceted reasons behind the government’s actions and the broader implications for Malaysian society. The Rise in Harmful Content The Malaysian government has reported a significant increase in harmful …

The Philippines’ political landscape has been shaped by various leaders, but none as controversial and talked about as Ferdinand Marcos and Rodrigo Duterte. Their regimes have sparked debates, with opinions ranging from fervent support to vehement opposition. This editorial seeks to explore the intricate layers of Filipino sentiment towards these two polarizing figures. The Marcos Era: A Mixed Legacy Ferdinand …