Navigating Philippine Instability: A Call to Action for Global Fund Shifts

An SJ&P Special report on the political and landscape dynamics of the Philippines and the world.

The Philippines is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and resilient people. However, a growing instability presents significant challenges not only for the country but also for the global community. As we live in an increasingly interconnected world, the implications of Philippine instability ripple far beyond its shores. This blog post will discuss the current situation in the Philippines, the global concerns that arise from this instability, and the urgent need to rethink global funding strategies.

Understanding the Current Landscape

The Philippines is grappling with numerous challenges that contribute to its instability. Political divisions, significant economic disparities, and widespread social unrest are a few of the pressing factors creating an unstable atmosphere. For instance, since the last elections, protests have surged, with reports indicating that up to 56% of the population supports movements calling for reform.

Economically, the landscape is daunting; recent statistics reveal that about 23.7% of Filipinos are living below the poverty line, an increase from previous years, in part due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses closed during the pandemic, pushing the unemployment rate to a staggering 17.7% at its peak. Criticism of the government’s handling of economic recovery has fueled public discontent, leading to a cycle of protests and unrest.

The implications of this instability can extend globally. The Philippines holds a vital place in Southeast Asia, and disruptions can have cascading effects across the region and beyond.

The Global Perspective

The instability in the Philippines raises several global concerns. First, it jeopardizes regional security. Situated in a geopolitically sensitive zone, unrest in the Philippines can exacerbate tensions with neighboring countries, particularly regarding territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The Philippines has been involved in long-standing conflicts with China over the Spratly Islands, which could escalate with increasing domestic instability.

Economic repercussions can affect global markets too. The Philippines is key in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, supplying about 10% of the world's coconut oil and 30% of its global electronics exports. Instability that disrupts these sectors could lead to supply chain issues affecting other countries.

Current Tensions in Eastern Europe and the Gulf Region

The conflict in Ukraine has increased tensions in Europe, particularly affecting Poland and Eastern European countries. Russia's actions have led to heightened military readiness in Poland, joint exercises with NATO, and strengthened borders. The Baltic states are also engaging with NATO to ensure defense strategies.

Implications of a Potential Escalation

An escalation in Eastern Europe could lead to military, economic, and humanitarian impacts, including population displacement and resource strain. Economic effects might disrupt global markets and energy supplies, impacting Europe's reliance on Russian energy.

The Situation in the Gulf Region

The Gulf region is challenged by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, causing regional tensions that affect Egypt and Jordan. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is working to address humanitarian needs and promote peace.

Conclusion

Tensions in Eastern Europe and the Gulf region highlight the complexity of international relations, with nations balancing security and peace efforts. Potential escalation in either region poses significant risks, requiring vigilant diplomatic efforts to prevent conflict.

Finally, the humanitarian implications are significant. An increase in poverty and social unrest may lead to mass migration. In recent years, the Philippines has experienced several waves of migration as people seek better conditions in other countries, causing strain on nearby nations and international bodies tasked with refugee support.

The Need for Global Fund Shifts. Rebalancing your Portfolio towards Multi Asset and Systematic Funds

In today’s volatile economic environment, traditional single-asset strategies—whether equities, bonds, or commodities—often struggle to deliver consistent returns. Global uncertainties, shifting interest rate cycles, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical risks are reshaping the investment landscape. These forces highlight the urgent need for investors to reconsider their portfolio allocations.

A key shift lies in moving towards multi-asset strategies and systematic funds:

• Multi-Asset Funds: Designed to diversify across asset classes, they provide a balanced exposure to equities, fixed income, real assets, and alternatives. This diversification helps manage risk while tapping into multiple sources of growth.

• Systematic Funds: Driven by disciplined, rules-based models, these funds aim to remove emotional bias from investing. They capture market inefficiencies, adapt to changing conditions, and often enhance risk-adjusted returns.

  
  

By rebalancing portfolios in favor of these approaches, investors can:

1. Achieve better resilience in times of uncertainty.

2. Capture global opportunities beyond traditional markets.

3. Maintain a long-term, adaptive strategy suited for evolving financial cycles.

Engaging the Global Community

Protecting Your Wealth with Global Funds

Markets today are full of uncertainty—rising rates, inflation, and global risks. This makes it more important than ever to diversify and protect your wealth.

One smart shift is moving into multi-asset and systematic funds. Multi-asset funds spread investments across stocks, bonds, and other assets for balance, while systematic funds use disciplined, data-driven strategies that adapt to market changes. Together, they help build resilience.

Currency also plays a key role. The U.S. dollar remains the world’s most trusted safe haven, shielding investors from local currency swings and opening access to global opportunities.

Trusted global managers like JP Morgan Multi-Asset Fund and BlackRock Fund offer both peso and dollar accounts, backed by decades of strong performance. With them, you’re not just investing—you’re safeguarding your future with proven global expertise.

Bottom line: Diversify across assets, anchor part of your portfolio in dollars, and partner with trusted global fund managers to protect and grow your wealth in uncertain times.

Go beyond borders with InLife’s access to JP Morgan and BlackRock Funds—trusted names in global investing. Schedule a quick online or face-to-face consultation with our Certified Wealth Manager and start creating a strategy that balances protection with opportunity. Click here >

Learn more about the author

King San José-Santos is a registered financial planner, Certified Financial Consultant, and certified technical market analyst with multiple licenses from the SEC and the Philippine Insurance Commission for investment, insurance, and healthcare. He has been recognized as a Fellow in IFC corporate finance and serves as the chief financial planner at SJP Wealth Advisory, focusing on retirement funds for VIPs, high-net-worth individuals, and corporations. Click this link to schedule a free consultation with him.