Regions / Major Cities: Some Facts & #s

(This blog is under construction)

Ours is not a federal system of government. But make no mistake, most local political dynasties already rule with dictator-like controls of the fate of so many of their poor constituents. However, their guarantees of smooth-sailing operations for your venture or project is not always according to your notion.

For example, in the case of mining, some firms decided to divest from a venture or leave when powerful local officials begin to be accused of murders or summary executions of civil society or even tribal leaders who lead protests or opposition to irresponsible mining.

Also, these same officials might have vested interests in keeping even the protesters on their fold - so there will be situations when you don't know who or what interests entangle you, your firm and your operations.

They have a capture of power they'd never relinquish without a violent fight, and they have good controls of, among others, even the dynamics of some sectors of the private sector. One official in Central Philippines, for example, have vast powers over the regional officials of national government agencies - even in ensuring impunity to the big crime bosses that perpetuate an environment conducive to, among others, ease of assassinations there and elsewhere...

So, how is it in some regions of the country that we are going to feature?...