大象传媒

Formerly known as the 'sick man' of Asia, the Filipino economy has seen a turnaround in its fortunes, thanks to savvy policies credited to the country's president. Charlotte Ashton reports from Manila on how the Philippines has been transformed. She speaks to residents who have decided to stay on rather than try their luck elsewhere, and to Professor Ronald Mendoza of the Asia School of Management, about how the Philippines is trying to keep up its economic momentum. Plus, she finds out about the problems of keeping the country's massive population fed and healthy which is leading to investment in genetically modified foods, like golden rice. Charlotte speaks to Dr Antonio Alfonso of the Philippines Rice Research Institute about the controversial technology.

(Image: A Filipino boy waves a small nation flag during the celebration of the 112th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence. Credit: AFP/Getty Images)