Philippines' Colonial Hangover Stalls Economic and Political Progress After 80 Years of Independence
Economy

Philippines' Colonial Hangover Stalls Economic and Political Progress After 80 Years of Independence

Eighty years after independence, the Philippines grapples with a colonial legacy that analysts say has entrenched economic stagnation and political oligarchy. Inadequate land reform and a "cacique democracy" are identified as key factors perpetuating elite control and hindering industrial development.

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