The Philippines: Past and Present is the second volume of one of the most authoritative studies of the region by Dean C. Worcester. In this book, the author draws attention to the complex path of development of the Philippines, from the colonization by Spain to the modern challenges that the country is facing. Worcester resorted to a retrospective analysis of the history of the Philippines, which is studied on the basis of case studies and documentary evidence. The book invites the reader to delve into the complex problems of Philippine politics, culture and society, revealing important aspects of the country's development. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and modernity of this unique Southeast Asian country.