About Per SE

Commentary and research on current events and public policy by economists from the University of the Philippines
Posts tagged "development"

A fable for our times

This is a work of fiction. However it is not guaranteed that the characters will not resemble actual persons, living or dead, and that the places are unreal.

Across the decades: economic development of the Philippines and Hong Kong

The sustained economic rise of Hong Kong under British colonial rule is one of the most remarkable stories in recorded economic development.

Hong Kong and the Philippines: historical perspective on political freedom and economic development

This week, through the ballot and a local election that appears to resemble the mid-year local elections in our country, Hong Kong made a powerful statement to its central government.

How the industrial import-substitution policy became more entrenched — the Magsaysay years

When Ramon Magsaysay was elected president in 1954, the country was already in the midst of import and exchange controls.

Factors that still afflict us in a growing economy

The overall management of the country’s macro-fundamentals in the midst of a higher investment effort has enabled the country to sustain a growing economy. Yet, the country still has many microeconomic and sector issues that need improvement. Indeed, we are faced with many problems that continue to afflict and negate the economy’s forward motion....

The Philippine economy rising

Over the weekend, I was in receipt of a book that was published last year, titled The Philippine economy: No longer the East Asian Exception?

Colonial economic and social development: 1898-1941

We explore more aspects of Philippine economic history during the American colonial period (1898 to 1941, inclusive). This was a critical period of preparation for political independence which would become real by 1946.

India’s economic growth and the Philippines compared

Comparisons with other countries enable us to see ourselves in a fresh light. We get to understand and appreciate our problems and strengths in perspective.

Restoring Manila Bay is like unclogging Manila’s traffic

The restoration of Manila Bay’s pristine quality the way it was before, or how we want it to be, is a long-term project. It will require large private and public investment in resources.

The uncleaning of Manila Bay — historical background

The recent public outcry and demand for the cleanup of Manila Bay is the result of decades of continued deterioration of the environmental health of Metro Manila and its bay since after the Second World War.

Tourism as a driver of growth and employment

The Philippine tourism industry today is now much bigger than a decade ago. However, it is still a relatively small industry compared to the tourism industries among other ASEAN neighbors.

Economic development: what we do well and what we don’t

Much of economic development is an accumulation of improving ways of doing things. Dramatic improvements in the development process often result when we learn how to plan and execute properly.