Like many developing nations, the Philippines has been relying on western standards as handed down by American colonialists and perpetuated by the Filipino elite. The heavy focus of this western approach on economic indicators of progress is suited to the elite's interests, since it controls commerce and industries.

This book presents the "ANT3 Paradigm," a new development paradigm that is more appropriate for developing nations because it is cognizant of the importance of the cultural and spiritual values of the people alongside their economic aspirations. "ANT3" stands for information technology Applications, social Networking, appropriate Technology, modern but affordable Telecommunications systems, and Training. This paradigm emphasizes community-building and a social organization in which every member has a distinct, vital role to play in the pursuit of the common good of the country.