The Bangui Windmills in Ilocos Norte, Philippines. In its latest multiannual program in the Philippines, the EU will contribute to strengthening power sector management in the country, as well as promoting the use of on- and off-grid renewable sources in the country. Photo by: Paolo Dala / CC BY-SA
The Philippines has among the fastest growing economies in Asia, but the country continues to exhibit high levels of inequality and uneven distribution of wealth. In addition, according to data, 25 percent of the population remains poor.
The European Union, a longtime partner of the Southeast Asian country, has identified various factors behind the high levels of poverty and inequality. These include gaps in infrastructure, limited work opportunities, corruption in the government, weak rule of law, rapid population growth and the presence of insurgent activities.