Ateneo Policy Center produced 25 publications for 2024

In 2024, the Ateneo Policy Center produced 10 peer-reviewed journal articles and 15 working papers. As the public policy think tank and research unit of the Ateneo School of Government, the Center continues to honor its commitment to producing cutting-edge research on relevant political, economic, and social issues faced by the Philippines. 

Three journal articles examined the remaining challenges for inclusive development and democratic consolidation in light of the Duterte administration's aftermath. An online survey grouped Filipino citizens based on their punitive attitudes to pinpoint specific clusters vulnerable to populist rhetoric. A 2022 nationwide survey also finds evidence of persistent populist attitudes in the country. The authors argue that Marcos Jr.’s investment in a social media campaign and strategic alignment with the Duterte brand helped garner votes from a Filipino public widely supportive of Duterte’s populist policies. Finally, an empirical analysis of Duterte’s economic reforms illustrates a mixed legacy featuring strides in public infrastructure and tax reform despite a failure to address key issues arising from inequity, weakened rule of law, and poor pandemic handling. 

Another article touched on governance issues that enabled a lack of accountability in the Philippines as a crucial factor in Vietnam surpassing the Philippines in terms of GDP. An article also detailed how recent geopolitical fissures present risks to national security and economic development—calling for derisking rather than decoupling as an economic strategy in an era of heightened globalization. The Center published working papers that feature case studies evaluating industrial policy for economic growth, the recent joint venture agreements of water districts, the regional economic impact of the Clark International Airport, and evidence-based policy recommendations for Philippine employment and pandemic preparedness. 

In addition to political and economic topics, the Center contributed to efforts to address contemporary issues in Philippine healthcare. Working papers have been developed as part of engagements with stakeholders to enhance access to medical records through targeted promotional efforts of a health smart card program, which was recently published as a journal article, modernizing the accreditation process for healthcare facilities, and empowering local government units in the implementation of the 2018 Mental Health Act of the Philippines. Particular attention has also been given to healthcare workers with an article on the challenges faced by barangay healthcare workers and working papers on the nursing crisis. With the dwindling supply of nurses in the country amid growing demand for healthcare professionals abroad, these papers outline recommendations to improve the working conditions of nurses in the Philippines to preserve the welfare of nurses abroad. 

Finally, the Center builds on previous research advocating for tobacco control and governance in the country. On the implementation of Graphic Health Warnings for tobacco products, the Center’s study finds that most products in the Philippines are non-compliant with the law, Filipinos do not perceive current packaging as effective, and they prefer plain packaging for tobacco products. Without regulations on flavored tobacco products in the country, a novel study (published as both a working paper and a journal article) profiled these products in the Philippine market and discussed opportunities to mitigate their appeal to the public. Working papers have also been developed to provide policy recommendations for the packaging and regulation of vapor and heated tobacco products amidst an e-cigarette epidemic, as well as for the improvement of smoking cessation services and interventions in the Philippines. 

With heartfelt appreciation, the Ateneo Policy Center acknowledges the unwavering support of its research fellows, partners, and stakeholders in driving the mission of a prosperous and empowered Philippines. These research endeavors are a testament to their dedication to the country, and the Center looks forward to meaningful collaborations in 2025. For more information on research materials produced by the Ateneo Policy Center, please visit this link.