PETA 4

Office of the President of the Philippines.

Rating: 6 - Moderately Performing

The Office of the President in the Philippines holds significant executive power and responsibility.
President Rodrigo Duterte's administration faced both praise and criticism during its tenure. Several
commendable initiatives include the Build, Build, Build infrastructure program, efforts against illegal
drugs, and the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law, aiming to boost the country's
infrastructure and address social issues.

However, the administration faced controversies and criticisms related to human rights violations,
particularly concerning the war on drugs. International bodies and human rights organizations expressed
concerns about extrajudicial killings and alleged abuses by law enforcement under Duterte's
administration.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed challenges in healthcare management and resource
distribution, impacting the government's response effectiveness.

While the Office of the President has made efforts to address infrastructure and social issues,
controversies surrounding human rights and pandemic management impact its overall performance.

References:

1. Avendaño, C. (2019). 'President's achievements, controversies after 3 years in office'. Inquirer.net.

[https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1130026/presidents-achievements-controversies-after-3-years-in-office]
(https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1130026/presidents-achievements-controversies-after-3-years-in-office)

2. Human Rights Watch. (2021). 'Philippines: Duterte's 'Drug War' Claims 5,300 Lives'.
[https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/01/13/philippines-dutertes-drug-war-claims-5300-lives](https://
www.hrw.org/news/2021/01/13/philippines-dutertes-drug-war-claims-5300-lives)

3. The Philippine Star. (2021). 'Palace defends Duterte's infrastructure program amid criticism'.
[https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/02/11/2076910/palace-defends-dutertes-infrastructure-
program-amid-criticism](https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/02/11/2076910/palace-defends-
dutertes-infrastructure-program-amid-criticism)

Office of the Vice President.

Rating: 8 - Performing

The Office of the Vice President, under Vice President Leni Robredo, has shown proactive efforts in
various social and community-oriented initiatives. Through programs like Angat Buhay and Bayanihan E-
Konsulta, the office has focused on alleviating poverty, supporting rural communities, and providing
healthcare access, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Angat Buhay program effectively collaborates with various sectors, local government units, and
private entities to address community needs, showcasing a commendable multi-stakeholder approach
to social issues. Moreover, the Bayanihan E-Konsulta initiative aimed to offer telemedicine services to
remote areas, enhancing healthcare accessibility.

The Office of the Vice President's efforts in disaster response, community development, and innovative
approaches to address societal challenges reflect its commitment to serving the Filipino people, earning
it recognition for its proactive and inclusive approach to social welfare.

References:

1. Office of the Vice President. (n.d.). About Angat Buhay. [https://www.angatbuhay.ph/about]

(https://www.angatbuhay.ph/about)

2. Office of the Vice President. (n.d.). Bayanihan E-Konsulta. [https://www.ovp.gov.ph/projects/e-

konsulta/](https://www.ovp.gov.ph/projects/e-konsulta/)

3. The Philippine Star. (2021). 'OVP's Angat Buhay program reaches P700-M milestone'.
[https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/06/28/2108914/ovps-angat-buhay-program-reaches-p700-
m-milestone](https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/06/28/2108914/ovps-angat-buhay-program-
reaches-p700-m-milestone)

4. Robredo, L. (2020). 'The Office of the Vice President's Role in COVID-19 Response'.
[https://www.lenirobredo.com/2020/08/14/the-office-of-the-vice-presidents-role-in-covid-19-
response/](https://www.lenirobredo.com/2020/08/14/the-office-of-the-vice-presidents-role-in-covid-
19-response/)

Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines.(national movements agencies)

Rating: 5 - Moderately Performing

The Department of Health (DOH) plays a critical role in providing healthcare services, promoting public
health, and responding to health crises. However, its performance has been marred by various
challenges.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly strained the healthcare system. The DOH faced criticisms related
to its pandemic response, including issues with data accuracy, coordination, resource distribution, and
healthcare capacity. Moreover, the country's healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, has
shown significant gaps in accessibility and quality of care.

Although the DOH has implemented vaccination programs and public health campaigns, challenges in
vaccine distribution and hesitancy hindered achieving vaccination targets efficiently.

However, it's important to note that amidst challenges, the DOH continues to work on improving
healthcare services, advocating for better healthcare policies, and striving to address gaps in the
healthcare system.

References:

1. The Philippine Star. (2021). 'DOH gets low score for COVID-19 response'.
[https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/06/17/2106026/doh-gets-low-score-covid-19-response]
(https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/06/17/2106026/doh-gets-low-score-covid-19-response)

2. Department of Health Philippines. (n.d.). National Health Facility Registry. [https://nhfr.doh.gov.ph/]

(https://nhfr.doh.gov.ph/)

3. Reuters. (2021). 'Philippines' health system in distress as COVID-19 cases surge'.

[https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/philippines-health-system-distress-
covid-19-cases-surge-2021-08-12/](https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/
philippines-health-system-distress-covid-19-cases-surge-2021-08-12/)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) plays a crucial role in national security, defense, and
disaster response.

Rating: 7 - Performing

The AFP has demonstrated effectiveness in maintaining internal security, countering insurgencies, and
responding to natural disasters. Their efforts in combatting terrorism, particularly against groups like
Abu Sayyaf and the Maute group, showcase their commitment to national security.

However, the AFP also faces challenges. Allegations of human rights abuses during counter-insurgency
operations have drawn criticism both locally and internationally. Additionally, modernization efforts to
enhance military capabilities have been met with budgetary constraints and delays.

Despite these challenges, the AFP remains a vital institution for maintaining peace and order in the
Philippines. Their role in disaster response, such as during typhoons and other calamities, has been
instrumental in providing aid and security to affected areas.

References:
1. The Philippine Star. (2021). 'AFP says Maute group still a threat despite infighting'.
[https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/10/26/2148663/afp-says-maute-group-still-threat-despite-
infighting](https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/10/26/2148663/afp-says-maute-group-still-
threat-despite-infighting)

2. Human Rights Watch. (2021). 'Philippines: New Anti-Insurgency Campaign Threatens Rights'.
[https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/09/21/philippines-new-anti-insurgency-campaign-threatens-rights]
(https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/09/21/philippines-new-anti-insurgency-campaign-threatens-rights)

3. Philippine News Agency. (2021). 'AFP modernization gets another boost with new assets'.
[https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158094](https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1158094)

The Philippine National Police (PNP)plays a critical role in maintaining law and order in the country.

Rating: 6 - Moderately Performing

The PNP has been instrumental in addressing various crimes and maintaining peace in local
communities. Its efforts in counter-narcotics operations, crime prevention, and law enforcement have
contributed to reducing crime rates in certain areas.

However, the PNP has faced scrutiny regarding human rights abuses, particularly in the context of the
anti-drug campaign. Reports by human rights organizations and the United Nations have highlighted
concerns about extrajudicial killings and violations during police operations, raising questions about due
process and human rights adherence.

Moreover, internal issues such as corruption, discipline problems, and insufficient resources have been
areas of concern within the PNP.

While the PNP has made strides in combating crime, challenges related to human rights, discipline, and
resource management impact its overall performance.

References:

1. Human Rights Watch. (2021). 'Philippines: Duterte's 'Drug War' Claims 5,300 Lives'.
[https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/01/13/philippines-dutertes-drug-war-claims-5300-lives](https://
www.hrw.org/news/2021/01/13/philippines-dutertes-drug-war-claims-5300-lives)

2. Reuters. (2021). 'Philippine police to wear body cameras in drug operations'.

[https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippine-police-wear-body-cameras-drug-operations-
2021-11-16/](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippine-police-wear-body-cameras-drug-
operations-2021-11-16/)
3. ABS-CBN News. (2021). 'PNP sets up body to address internal discipline problems'. [https://news.abs-
cbn.com/news/10/27/21/pnp-sets-up-body-to-address-internal-discipline-problems](https://news.abs-
cbn.com/news/10/27/21/pnp-sets-up-body-to-address-internal-discipline-problems)

The Judicial Branch, comprising the Supreme Court and lower courts in the Philippines

Rating: 8 - Performing

The Supreme Court, as the highest judicial body, has made efforts to uphold the rule of law, protect
constitutional rights, and maintain checks and balances. Decisions made by the Supreme Court have
often been pivotal in safeguarding civil liberties and maintaining democratic principles.

Additionally, the judiciary has implemented reforms to enhance court efficiency, such as the continuous
trial system and the use of technology to streamline processes and improve access to justice.

However, challenges persist, including case backlogs, delays in the resolution of cases, and issues related
to judicial integrity. Despite these challenges, the judiciary's efforts in safeguarding the rule of law,
protecting fundamental rights, and implementing reforms to improve the justice system contribute to its
overall performing status.

References:

1. Supreme Court of the Philippines. (n.d.). 'About the Court'. [https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/about-the-

court/](https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/about-the-court/)

2. Office of the Court Administrator. (2021). 'SC, judiciary have introduced game-changing reforms'.
[https://www.oca.supremecourt.gov.ph/sc-judiciary-have-introduced-game-changing-reforms/]
(https://www.oca.supremecourt.gov.ph/sc-judiciary-have-introduced-game-changing-reforms/)

3. The Manila Times. (2021). 'Judiciary faces case backlog as pandemic persists'.
[https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/08/04/news/national/judiciary-faces-case-backlog-as-pandemic-
persists/1800383](https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/08/04/news/national/judiciary-faces-case-
backlog-as-pandemic-persists/1800383)

The Legislative Branch in the Philippines, composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives, is
responsible for making laws, representing the people, and ensuring checks and balances in governance.

Rating: 6 - Moderately Performing

Both the Senate and the House of Representatives play essential roles in legislation and oversight. They
have passed significant laws addressing various societal issues, such as tax reforms, health-related
legislation, and measures for economic development.

However, challenges exist, including partisan politics that sometimes hinder swift lawmaking. Instances
of political gridlock or delays in passing crucial bills have affected legislative efficiency. Moreover,
concerns about pork barrel allocations and issues of transparency in the budgeting process have sparked
controversies.

Efforts to address these challenges have been observed through committee hearings, legislative
inquiries, and the passage of key bills. Nevertheless, the perceived slow pace of legislative action and
concerns about certain practices impact the overall performance of the Legislative Branch.

References:

1. Philippine Senate. (n.d.). 'About the Senate'.

[https://www.senate.gov.ph/about/](https://www.senate.gov.ph/about/)

2. House of Representatives. (n.d.). 'About the House'.

[http://www.congress.gov.ph/about/](http://www.congress.gov.ph/about/)

3. Rappler. (2021). '5 important laws authored by Philippine senators'.

[https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/important-laws-authored-philippine-senators](https://
www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/important-laws-authored-philippine-senators)

4. GMA News Online. (2021). 'House approves 2021 budget on final reading'.
[https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/758529/house-approves-2021-budget-on-final-
reading/story/](https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/758529/house-approves-2021-
budget-on-final-reading/story/)

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

Rating: 9 - Highly Performing

The BSP has effectively managed the country's monetary policy, maintaining price stability and fostering
economic growth. It has implemented prudent measures to manage inflation and has been proactive in
addressing economic challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The BSP's policies, such as
interest rate adjustments and liquidity support to banks, have been instrumental in stabilizing the
economy.

Moreover, the BSP has undertaken financial reforms, promoting financial inclusion, enhancing
cybersecurity, and introducing innovative initiatives like digital payments systems (e.g., InstaPay and
PESONet) to improve financial services accessibility.

Additionally, the country's finance structure, including the collaboration between the BSP, the
Department of Finance, and other financial institutions, has facilitated a robust financial framework
conducive to economic resilience and growth.

References:

1. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (n.d.). 'About BSP'. [https://www.bsp.gov.ph/SitePages/AboutBSP.aspx]

(https://www.bsp.gov.ph/SitePages/AboutBSP.aspx)

2. Reuters. (2021). 'Philippines central bank holds rates as it focuses on recovery'.

[https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippines-central-bank-holds-rates-it-focuses-recovery-
2021-11-25/](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippines-central-bank-holds-rates-it-
focuses-recovery-2021-11-25/)

3. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (n.d.). 'Financial Inclusion Initiatives'.

[https://www.bsp.gov.ph/About/FinancialInclusion/FinancialInclusion.asp](https://www.bsp.gov.ph/
About/FinancialInclusion/FinancialInclusion.asp)

4. Philippine Daily Inquirer. (2021). 'InstaPay, PESONet transactions surge during pandemic'.
[https://business.inquirer.net/324633/instapay-pesonet-transactions-surge-during-pandemic](https://
business.inquirer.net/324633/instapay-pesonet-transactions-surge-during-pandemic)

Public Health System in the Philippines

Rating: 6 - Moderately Performing

The Philippines' public health system has made strides in several areas, including disease prevention,
vaccination programs, and maternal and child health. The government has implemented health-related
policies, such as the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law, aimed at providing equitable healthcare access to
all citizens. Additionally, efforts to combat infectious diseases, like Dengue and Tuberculosis, have seen
progress through public health campaigns and interventions.

However, challenges persist. The system faces issues such as limited healthcare infrastructure in rural
areas, disparities in access to quality healthcare, and resource constraints. The COVID-19 pandemic
further strained the healthcare system, exposing weaknesses in healthcare capacity and infrastructure.

Moreover, there are concerns about healthcare workforce shortages and unequal distribution of
healthcare resources among regions, affecting the system's overall performance.
Despite ongoing efforts and legislative measures like the UHC Law, persistent challenges hinder the
public health system from achieving a higher rating.

References:

1. Republic of the Philippines. (2019). Republic Act No. 11223 (Universal Health Care Act).
[https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2019/02feb/20190220-RA-11223-RRD.pdf](https://
www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2019/02feb/20190220-RA-11223-RRD.pdf)

2. World Health Organization. (2021). 'The Philippines' response to COVID-19: Progress, challenges, and
opportunities'. [https://www.who.int/philippines/news/feature-stories/detail/the-philippines-response-
to-covid-19-progress-challenges-and-opportunities](https://www.who.int/philippines/news/feature-
stories/detail/the-philippines-response-to-covid-19-progress-challenges-and-opportunities)

3. Rappler. (2021). 'Why the Philippines is struggling to fight tuberculosis'.

[https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/philippines-struggling-fight-tuberculosis](https://
www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/philippines-struggling-fight-tuberculosis)

PETA 8

The Spanish chronicles, including accounts by Miguel de Loarca and Pedro Chirino, often depicted the
sexuality of precolonial women in the Philippines through the lens of their own cultural norms and
biases. They viewed indigenous women's behavior and practices through a Eurocentric perspective,
often portraying them as morally loose or promiscuous based on their own standards. However, from a
Filipino perspective rooted in indigenous narratives and historical research, precolonial women's
sexuality was more diverse and complex. Women had significant agency and autonomy in matters of
relationships and family structures within their respective indigenous societies. Their roles, rights, and
expressions of sexuality were often influenced by cultural beliefs, traditions, and social structures
specific to various tribes and regions in the Philippines.