Philippines' Sara Duterte to enter 2028 presidential raceーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Philippine Presidential Election 2028: Sarah Duterte’s announcement of candidacy and her criticisms of the current administration.
• Thai Tourism & Lunar New Year: Focus on Chinese tourist arrivals and economic recovery.
• Pakistani Beer Industry: Mari Brewery’s history, production process, and new export strategy.
• International Criminal Court (ICC): Role in the arrest of Rodrigo Duterte.
• Islamic Law & Alcohol Production: The unique situation of Mari Brewery in Pakistan.

Philippines: Sarah Duterte Announces Presidential Bid

Philippine Vice President Sarah Duterte officially announced her candidacy for the 2028 presidential election on Wednesday. Duterte, age 47, stated, “I offer my life, my strength, and my future in the service of our nation.” This announcement marks a significant shift in the Philippine political landscape, particularly given her previous alliance with current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the 2022 election.

The relationship between Duterte and Marcos Jr. has demonstrably deteriorated. Duterte publicly criticized Marcos Jr., alleging “dishonesty regarding the promises he made during the campaign” within the first months of his presidency. This criticism was further compounded by the arrest of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, in the previous year. The arrest was carried out by Philippine authorities under an order from the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to the controversial “war on drugs” implemented during his presidency. Duterte also leveled accusations of corruption against Marcos Jr.’s administration, specifically concerning government flood control projects.

The Philippine Constitution limits presidents to a single six-year term, precluding Marcos Jr. from seeking re-election. The political focus now centers on whether Marcos Jr.’s political allies will put forward a candidate to challenge Duterte in the 2028 election.

Thailand: Lunar New Year and Tourism Recovery

Thailand is currently experiencing Lunar New Year celebrations, with a particular emphasis on attracting tourists, especially from China. Following a decline in foreign arrivals last year, the Thai tourism industry is placing significant hope on increased numbers during this holiday season. The Spring Festival holiday began on Sunday.

Bangkok’s shopping malls are hosting traditional Chinese dances nightly, themed around the horse – the animal representing the current year in the Chinese zodiac. These events draw both tourists and locals, many of whom are praying for good fortune. One local stated, “I pray mostly for my work, my family, for my life to be smooth and happy. I wish that my current work does not bring any obstacles. I do hope for Thailand to be peaceful.”

Thai authorities are aiming for a 10% increase in foreign visitor numbers during this holiday period compared to the same period last year. Factors potentially impacting tourism last year included concerns over the border conflict with Cambodia and the strengthening of the Thai baht against other currencies.

Pakistan: Mari Brewery and Export Expansion

Mari Brewery, Pakistan’s oldest beverage manufacturer, established in 1860 during British colonial rule, is pivoting towards international exports after nearly half a century. The brewery, located in Rawalpindi near Islamabad, operates under a special government license allowing it to produce alcoholic beverages – specifically beer – for the country’s non-Muslim population, in accordance with Islamic law. Originally founded to brew beer for British soldiers stationed in the region, some of the original colonial-era buildings remain.

The beer produced by Mari Brewery is characterized by its “mild bitterness with a fruity note.” The company emphasizes its commitment to quality, utilizing Himalayan groundwater and barley imported from Australia. Rigorous quality control measures are implemented throughout the brewing process, including tests for protein levels, corn weighting, and water quality. Factors such as temperature and carbonation are carefully monitored post-brewing to maintain the beer’s original taste.

Pakistan’s struggling domestic economy prompted the government to resume allowing exports in 2025. A government representative stated, “The mission of the government…is exports. So we need exports. So we rely less on World Bank, IMF, Asian Development Bank. We need to stand our own feet.”

Mari Brewery has already dispatched beer samples to Japan, the United Kingdom, and Portugal, and has received inquiries from the United States. The company reports a “excellent” initial reaction and anticipates future orders, attributing its success to product quality. They plan a “slow and steady” expansion into international markets.