Philippines

Although the Philippines transitioned from authoritarian rule in 1986, the rule of law and application of justice are haphazard and heavily favor political and economic elites. Long-term violent insurgencies have continued for decades, though their threat to the state has diminished in recent years. Impunity remains the norm for violent crimes against activists and journalists, and President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs since 2016 has led to thousands of extrajudicial killings.

Iranian people in Izmir protest the death of Mahsa Amini by the morality police in Iran.

Freedom in the World — Philippines Country Report

Philippines is rated Partly Free in Freedom in the World 2023 , Freedom House's annual study of political rights and civil liberties worldwide.

Freedom on the Net— Philippines Country Report

Philippines is rated Partly Free in Freedom on the Net , Freedom House's comprehensive study of internet freedom around the globe.

Our Work in the Philippines

Freedom House supports civil society organizations that are working to empower communities to exercise their rights and pursue justice and accountability. Freedom House supports the efforts of civil society groups to conduct research and to engage in effective advocacy.

To learn more about Freedom House's work in Asia, visit our Asia-Pacific programs page.