The UP School of Economics (UPSE) hosted the launch and book signing of 𝑻𝒘𝒊𝒏 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒆𝒔: 𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝑫𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑪𝑶𝑽𝑰𝑫-19 𝑾𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝑬𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒚 by Jan Carlo B. Punongbayan, UPSE Associate Professor, on September 4, 2026, at the UPSE Auditorium.

Despite the rainy weather, the launch drew a number of members of the academic community and guests who took part in the discussion and book signing. Participants also availed themselves of copies of the book, reflecting interest in its examination of Philippine economic developments during the Duterte administration and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The book examines economic performance, public policy, and the broader factors that shaped the country’s economic trajectory during this period, providing a basis for further discussion on economic policy and development.

Highlights from the book launch and signing at UPSE.

𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬

SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth

Relates to the book’s examination of economic performance, disruption, recovery, and the broader conditions for sustainable economic development.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Relates to its consideration of public policy and the institutional dimensions of economic and development outcomes.

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being

Relates to the wider economic and development consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.