Legal developments and their impact on Filipinos

The evolving legal landscape in the Philippines — marked by high-profile political trials, economic policy shifts and geopolitical tensions — will have profound consequences on ordinary Filipinos.

From the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte to the legal challenges faced by former President Rodrigo Duterte, these events will shape governance, economic stability and the rule of law in the country.

One of the most immediate concerns is political stability. The impeachment proceedings against VP Duterte and the ongoing legal troubles of former President Rodrigo Duterte create uncertainty at the highest levels of government.

While the Senate’s decision on the impeachment remains to be seen, the spectacle of another political crisis could distract from urgent national issues such as economic recovery, inflation control and public safety. Political instability can dampen investor confidence, slow down governance and divert attention from the government’s core responsibilities. Ordinary Filipinos, especially workers and small business owners, may suffer from policy stagnation, increased political division and an erosion of trust in institutions.

On the legislative front, the proposed Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill is a polarizing issue. Proponents argue that it will equip young Filipinos with essential knowledge on reproductive health, thereby reducing teenage pregnancies and ensuring better futures for young mothers. However, President Marcos’ opposition to the bill, labeling it as “woke,” highlights the ongoing struggle between progressive policies and conservative ideologies. If the bill fails to pass, young Filipinos — particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds — will continue to lack access to vital information and healthcare services, potentially worsening the cycle of poverty and gender inequality.

The recently implemented tax reforms, particularly the 12-percent value-added tax on foreign digital services, will directly affect consumers and businesses. On one hand, this tax is designed to level the playing field for local businesses competing with global tech giants. However, for ordinary Filipinos who rely on digital platforms for education, work and entertainment, this means higher costs. Subscription-based services, freelance platforms and digital learning tools will become more expensive, potentially making access to online resources more difficult for lower-income households. While the government aims to generate additional revenue, it must also ensure that tax policies do not disproportionately burden the middle and lower classes.

Beyond domestic affairs, the escalating South China Sea tensions will have serious implications. Increased Chinese aggression threatens the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen and raises the possibility of heightened military conflicts. If diplomatic and legal measures fail, Filipinos in coastal communities may suffer economic losses, and the country could be dragged into a geopolitical crisis that affects national security and trade.

Ultimately, these legal developments highlight the need for a strong, stable and principled government. While laws and policies shape the country’s future, their true measure lies in how they affect the daily lives of Filipinos — whether by ensuring justice, fostering economic stability, or protecting national sovereignty. The coming months will determine whether these changes lead to progress or further political and economic uncertainty.