FROM THE FREE INDIVIDUAL TO THE FREE REPUBLIC
Ayn Rand, Daron Acemoglu, Political Competition, and the Philippine Search for a More Democratic State By Karl M. Garcia Introduction: Freedom Requires Institutions Ayn Rand and Daron Acemoglu begin from very different intellectual traditions. Rand emphasizes the moral autonomy of the individual; Acemoglu examines how institutions distribute political and economic power. They should not be … Continue reading
THERE IS NO SHAME IN SAYING: I USE AI
A Layman’s Case for Transparency, Curiosity, Human Judgment, and Responsibility in the Age of Artificial Intelligence By Karl M. Garcia Introduction: I Use AI. So What? I use AI. I say that openly because I see no reason to hide it, and I see even less reason to be ashamed of it. I am not … Continue reading
Benigno Aquino Jr.: Architect of Opposition and Symbol of Resistance
By Karl Garcia Early Life and Political Formation Benigno Aquino Jr. (1932–1983), commonly known as “Ninoy,” was born into a prominent political family in Concepcion, Tarlac. His father, Benigno Aquino Sr., served as Speaker of the National Assembly under the Japanese occupation, embedding in Ninoy a deep exposure to political networks from an early age. … Continue reading
Manuel L. Quezon: The Statesman Who Built the Foundations of Modern Philippine Government
Manuel L. Quezon is one of the most influential figures in Philippine history. While he is best known as the first President of the Commonwealth (1935–1944), his greatest legacy lies in building institutions that prepared the Philippines for independence. He combined nationalist aspirations with pragmatic governance, laying many of the foundations of the modern Philippine … Continue reading
FROM ISLANDS TO SYSTEMS
Building a Resilient, Circular and Connected Philippines Water, Waste, Energy, Materials, Industry and Infrastructure in One National Strategy By Karl M. Garcia | August 2026 Introduction: We Keep Treating Systems as Projects The Philippines does not lack plans. It lacks the institutional ability to connect, remember, implement, measure and continuously improve them. The latest debate … Continue reading