Night Owl: A Nationbuilder’s Manual

by Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo, A.A. Patawaran (Editor)

Night Owl offers a comprehensive look at the Build Build Build Program – President Rodrigo Duterte’s medium term development strategy to effectively usher in Philippines’ Golden Age of Infrastructure. It follows and provides a first hand narrative of the daunting details of tasks, reforms, and projects undertaken by Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar. Night Owl sheds light into the difficult challenges, critiques, and difficult decisions faced by the Build Build Build team and dives into the consequences subsequently.
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Witness heartwarming stories of Filipinos whose lives have improved with the completion of roads, bridges, rail, flood control projects, airports, seaports and classrooms. Night Owl is a compelling visual and informative storytelling of Philippine’s journey of change and transformation as it rally Philippines from a tiger cub economy to a first world country

364 pages, Hardcover

First published September 24, 2023

About the author

Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo currently serves as Undersecretary in the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Prior to this, she was Assistant Secretary of the Department under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. She supervises DICT’s strategic communications and media, handles international relations, and liaises with the Senate and House of Representatives to ensure the enactment of legislation that will support the government’s digitalization efforts.

During the Duterte Administration, Lamentillo was the chairperson of the Build, Build, Build Committee of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the concurrent chairperson of the Infrastructure Cluster Communications Committee. She also worked with both the United Nations Development Program and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in their Haiyan Emergency Response and Rehabilitation Program.

She graduated cum laude at the University of the Philippines Los Banos in 2012 with a degree of Development Communications, where she garnered the highest General Weighted Average for Development Journalism Majors and received the Faculty Medal for Academic Excellence. She completed her Executive Education in Economic Development at Harvard Kennedy School in 2018 and her Juris Doctor program at the UP College of Law in 2020. In 2021, she became a reserve officer in the Philippine Army with the rank of 1st Lieutenant.

She has been awarded Natatanging Iskolar Para sa Bayan and Oblation Statute for the Virtues of Industry and Magnanimity. In 2019, the Harvard Kennedy School Alumni Association bestowed upon her the Veritas Medal. She was named by BluPrint as one of 50 ASEAN movers and shakers, by Lifestyle Asia as one of 18 Game Changers, and by People Asia as one of 2019’s Women of Style and Substance. She maintains a column in the Op-Ed section of Manila Bulletin and Esquire Magazine.

Reviews

[Christine Miraflores · Rating 1 out of 5]

Recently I have been reading published works discussing the Duterte administration, and so I also grabbed a copy of Night Owl in order to look into the flagship infrastructure program, Build Build Build.

First few pages in and it already reeks of propaganda. The title was "Night Owl: A Nationbuilder's Manual" so I was expecting to read how the BBB program came to be, about bringing blueprint of such a big program to life, or at least something to that affect. But this book only features several DPWH projects all over the country.

On glossy paper, I was shown pictures of roads, bridges, flood control projects, etc. On glossy paper, a repetitive narrative of how the author first on-field with the former President, then-mayor Rodrigo Duterte was like, how DPWH Mark Villar did not know sleep during a certain project. On glossy paper, a copy paste of paragraphs just to fill in the pages with words because pictures-only book would make it a collage. Honestly, I can't even trust that all of what was written are true.

The language used in this book is far from journalistic. The book felt like a published personal journal, with not much content. This could be a coffee table book where you can just scan the whole book within minutes and be done with it. There was nothing insightful. The forewords and reviews are obviously written by staffs who haven't read the book at all (to be fair, there wasn't much to read).

Anyway, there's nothing to miss if you don't read or purchase this book. If you're curious enough, just borrow this book in Quezon City Public Library instead, and save yourself some money.

[Michael David · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was visiting the Philippine Book Festival here in Davao City with my good friends. Like them, I could have bought signed copies of Manix Abrera's work, or have one issue of Trese be autographed.

As I have been reading and assessing propaganda, however, the book Night Owl caught my eye. It is Duterte's puff piece and it celebrates his "Build, Build, Build" program. Having read most of Ferdinand Marcos's propaganda, I wanted to compare for myself how much better Duterte's was.
For starters, Night Owl is more colorful. It was published on glossy paper, but is quite affordable despite that, at Php 1200. This was efficiently published. Despite its 340 pages, it's an easy read as Lamentillo peppered the text with a lot of pictures that purportedly show the achievements of the program.

However, many factual inconsistencies can be seen, and this is even only with data that I could personally verify, such as the transit time within Davao City. Build, Build, Build was a well-meaning program, but without taking care of the seepages there was simply too much waste.
In addition, there was also significant credit-grabbing. The Iloilo Esplanade wasn't initiated or even mostly completed by Mark Villar: the reality was that it was proposed by then Mayor Jed Mabilog, and then further developed later on. To say that Villar's DPWH had been instrumental in its construction is, to me, dishonest.

There is also with the inane mention that irks me: more than anything, it is masking that protects against COVID-19 infection, not handwashing. If the SARS-CoV-2 virus enters one's nose and down one's respiratory system, no amount of handwashing can prevent infection. While I'm not a specialist like Dr. Sanicas, I am still a medical doctor and understand how COVID-19 spreads. Handwashing provides minimal protection in contrast to people using masks properly.

Overall, I'll give the book a 1.5/10. The 1.5 is well-deserved because of the well-designed cover and copious illustrations, but there are simply too many inconsistencies that make it little more than the puff piece it was meant to be.

[Loisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Night Owl" serves as a comprehensive saga, chronicling President Duterte's monumental endeavors under the Build, Build, Build program. Far beyond the realm of mere construction projects, it delves into the astute strategies and meticulous planning employed to address the nation's infrastructure challenges. The book casts a spotlight on President Duterte's decisive leadership and the tireless efforts of his team, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for all Filipinos. For those eager to uncover the intricacies of governance behind closed doors, this book offers an invaluable glimpse into the inner workings of power. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the transformational journey of the Philippines' infrastructure landscape.

[Jane Del · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Night Owl," readers are taken on a captivating journey into the heart of the Philippines' infrastructural revolution. The book serves as both a personal narrative and a testament to the transformative power of dedicated individuals in nation-building. The author narrates a compelling story of resilience, challenges, and triumphs in the pursuit of a stronger, more connected nation. I was hooked.

[Gerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lamentillo's choice to incorporate a personal element into the storytelling injects a level of genuineness that connects with people from various backgrounds. The challenges, successes, and unwavering commitment cease to be mere parts of a larger project; they evolve into relatable and uplifting narratives. "Night Owl" transcends its infrastructure focus, emerging as a tribute to human resilience, rendering it captivating for individuals of diverse experiences.

[Jhing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna Mae’s accounts here are compelling, given that she has firsthand experience witnessing
the transformative impact of these projects.

"Night Owl" details our growth in infrastructure over the past five years. Despite facing criticisms
and cynicism, the ambitious program has paved the way for Filipinos to dream on a larger scale.
We can only hope that these stories serve as inspiration and encourage future leaders to
embrace the same ambitions for our country’s progress.

[Chalbern Sayson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met Anna at an event that was held in Davao City last 2019 together with then PCOO Sec. Martin Andanar. Anna is well verse in explaining about the government Buil Buil Build Program. And when I found out that she was written a book, I immediately ordered and read it all. So far the book is exceptionally written and detailed project by project and how the Duterte admin did a good job on its promise to be the Gold age of infrastructure. Thank you Anna!

[Callie Onaral · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yey! Just finished reading the book page by page. I still cannot believe what the Duterte administration poured on its infrastructure projects. Infrastructures is the backbone of economy of a country and you did well good on delivering it that not even the past administration can surpass it. Thank you Anna for writing this, so Filipino can remember what you did and sec Villar to the country. God Bless!

[Aaliyah Callie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks Anna for writing this book! Actually the book I bought was a recommendation from a friend of mine. And I didn't regret buying it. All I can say is GOOD JOB to you and your team headed by then Sec. Mark Villar. You never failed the Filipino people and the Duterte administration it its promise of Golden Age of Infrastructure.

[Justine Alegre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book goes beyond the surface, offering a critical analysis of the challenges and triumphs of the Build Build Build program. An essential read for those seeking a nuanced understanding of infrastructure development.

[Marian Cabrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Build Build Build transcends geographical boundaries, presenting a case for infrastructure development that holds global relevance. A well-researched and eye-opening perspective on the interconnectedness of nations.

[David Dominguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through insightful interviews with key stakeholders, Build Build Build provides a 360-degree view of the intricate web of infrastructure planning. A journalistic approach that adds depth to the narrative.

[Edu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book not only highlights the physical improvements brought about by infrastructure development but also delves into the profound impact on the lives of ordinary Filipinos, illustrating how access to better roads, schools, and healthcare facilities has enhanced their quality of life.

[Liyah Maturan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Anna for this book you wrote. It was exceptionally written and I love how detailed it is. The Duterte administration and it's team did really a good job on its delivering a good infra projects for the Filipino people and you wrote it all here. Thank you for all your effort Anna!

[Leyrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Night Owl" presents a captivating narrative of the ambitious Build Build Build Program spearheaded by President Rodrigo Duterte, aimed at propelling the Philippines into its Golden Age of Infrastructure.

[Rechel]

Through the lens of Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar, readers are offered an inside look at the intricacies of this development strategy, from its inception to its implementation.

[Tress · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book delves into the myriad tasks, reforms, and projects undertaken by Secretary Villar and his team, providing a firsthand account of the challenges they faced and the difficult decisions they had to make.

[Ynna Yllana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through Night Owl, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the ambitious vision driving the Philippines towards its Golden Age of Infrastructure, shedding light on the relentless efforts to transform the nation's infrastructure landscape.

[Elijah Jerrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With insightful commentary and visually stunning storytelling, Night Owl provides an immersive experience, allowing audiences to witness firsthand the evolution of the Philippines' infrastructure and its profound effects on communities.

[Era Adel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Night Owl doesn't shy away from the challenges faced by the Build Build Build team, offering a balanced perspective that highlights both the successes and the hurdles overcome in the pursuit of national development.

[Heidi Espabilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

From roads and bridges to classrooms and flood control projects, Night Owl showcases the diverse range of infrastructure initiatives undertaken, illustrating the comprehensive approach taken towards nation building.

[Jienalei Corpuz · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the Philippines strives to transition from a tiger cub economy to a first world nation, Night Owl serves as a beacon of hope, showcasing the progress made and the transformative power of infrastructure investment in shaping the country's future.

[Randy Ponde · Rating 5 out of 5]

An empowering read for aspiring changemakers.

[Hershey West · Rating 5 out of 5]

Build Build Build is a collection of empowering narratives that highlight the positive transformations brought about by strategic infrastructure. A celebration of progress and resilience.

[Sabrina Javier · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book effectively communicates the importance of infrastructure as a driver of economic growth and social development.

[GB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Night Owl serves as an educational resource, shedding light on the intricate details of infrastructure projects and their broader implications.

[Ragnar L · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book effectively communicates the importance of infrastructure as a driver of economic growth and social development.

[Anthony Panganiban]

The author of this book, Ms. Anna Mae Lamentillo emphasizes the accomplishment of the build, build, build program from the Duterte Admunistration

[Lovely Viñas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author of this book, Ms. Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo emphasizes the accomplishment of build, build, build program from the Duterte administration

[Romel Conrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I find this book so interesting. Love it